Have a particular drama that you’d like to see reviewed? Caveat: I make no promises, but I will try to accommodate wherever possible 😉
Got a burning question to ask?
A great idea for the blog?
A comment that you just don’t know where else to park?
Or just wanna spazz together about something?
Leave a comment here, or email us!
To reach kfangurl: kfangurl@thefangirlverdict.com
To reach Lady G: LadyG@thefangirlverdict.com
Hi, have you seen “Only Just Married”? (Japanese drama, actor: Kentaro). I would love to read your review about it. Thanks.
ROYAL NIRVANA
Oh I hope you will watch this.
It’s on YOUKU
And it truly sweeps all other period Chinese dramas away with its EPIC feelz
Hi there bosuji!! Thanks for the recommendation! I just took a look at the trailer, and it does look promisingly epic. Kinda reminds me of The Rise of Phoenixes – especially with the mane of glory. 😁 Thanks for putting it on my radar – I’ll put it on my list for when I find myself in the mood for something like this. ❤️
Please do a review on Queenmaker. 💕
A bsky friend mentioned your reviews yesterday, and I’m so glad he did! I’ve loved browsing your lists. Overall it seems that for the shows we’ve both watched our tastes are more similar than not (I forgive you for loving Pasta😁), but what I’ve REALLY enjoyed are your reservations and critiques of shows I’ve enjoyed. No “how dare they drop that!” faves on your list, but the couple of your drops that I did really enjoy, I found your criticisms very well-reasoned and very reasonable, as with those you didn’t drop but didn’t love either.
Since I watched so many of those shows a dozen years ago, it’s quite likely that my own take on them might more closely mirror yours were I to try them today.
We may not be soul siblings in Drama tastes, but after more than 12 years of watching East Asian Dramas, I may have finally found a soul second cousin – who writes a HELLUVA lot better than I ever could. Thank you and keep up the OUTSTANDING work
Robin, hi! It’s great to meet you, and welcome to my little corner of the interwebs. ❤️
I’m so glad you found your way here (many thanks to your bsky friend!), and that you’ve been enjoying exploring the space. I love the idea of us being drama soul second cousins — that feels just about right. 😁 I’m very much looking forward to learning more about the shows you love (or don’t!), as you settle in.
Thank you especially for the encouragement around my writing. I’m really glad that the critiques and reservations resonated, even when our overall enjoyment didn’t quite align. Thoughtful disagreement is something I value hugely, both as a reader and a writer — and it’s very much a defining feature of this cozy community as well. 🥰
And yes, I completely agree with you about placement and timing — I suspect that if I were encountering Pasta for the first time now, I might have a very different response to it! 😄
Thank you for reading and for such a generous comment. I hope you’ll enjoy your time here. ❤️
Is ‘Love in the Clouds’ in your list of cdramas to watch? I have not moved on from this show and I am very very interested on what you think. 🤭
It’s my first time to write here and I appreciate your reviews very much. Most of your reviews aligns with mine to the point that most of the shows in my watchlist are from the ones you have rated well.
Thank you for your hard work!
Hi there mc, it’s great to finally meet you! ❤️ It’s lovely to know that you enjoy the reviews so well, and that our drama opinions align so closely!
I do have “Love in the Clouds” on my list, but I haven’t dipped a toe in yet. However, I am very much intrigued by the fact that you enjoyed it so well – especially since our drama opinions seem to be so similar! I’ll bump it up the list!
Yay! I am so happy to hear that!
The show is not perfect, but the cracky chemistry between the ML and FL more than made up for the sections that could’ve been improved. Ji Bozai is deliciously shameless. Lols
I hope you enjoy LITC!
I just finished The Legend of Zang Hai and I hope you get a chance to watch that, too! 🙂
Hello first time writing to you. Just want to express my thanks for all your reviews and I especially admire the fact you want to enjoy the show/shows. Some sites don’t feel like they’ve done their job without picking everything apart. I watch shows to feel good. Thanks for doing the same.
What’s the name of the KDrama in which the FL sleepwalks? Thanks.
Hi there, I can’t think of a kdrama where the FL sleepwalks, but I wonder if you might be thinking of Chinese drama The First Frost? The FL does have a sleepwalking problem in that one, and I enjoyed that drama very well! ❤️
Hi, I am a big fan of the site. I tried to look for a review of My Dearest, one of the best kdrama in 2023 IMO, but I can’t find it. Am I missing something? Thank you, Al
Hi there Al, thanks for enjoying the reviews! ❤️ I did try out My Dearest when it aired, but it didn’t grab me, 2 episodes in, and I wandered off and didn’t feel the urge to go back. I have vague good intentions of giving it another try sometime, though!
Sometimes when I start a Kdrama everyone loves, it does nothing for me. Also I’m not a big fan of historical Kdrama’s but I have to comment ‘My Dearest’ is my all time favorite Kdrama. The two leads had great chemistry and when the FL is kidnapped & he accidentally finds her, the scene was so believable. Also, the OST is beautiful, I still play the soundtrack frequently. All of us have favorites but we shouldn’t degrade someone based on what we find entertaining and they don’t.
Hi there Carol, glad to hear that you love My Dearest so much. I certainly didn’t mean to degrade anyone who loves the show (is that what you meant? 😅), but if my comment hurt your feelings, I’m sorry! ❤️
No, you did not hurt my feelings whatsoever. My comment expressed meaning was we can’t all enjoy the same Kdrama’s. It’s a individual choice.
Carol
Ah, thanks for clarifying, Carol!! That’s very true, we have such varied tastes, as a drama community! And that’s what keeps life interesting! ❤️
Thanks for the reply! It was just like My Mister for me. It took 4-5 episodes for the story to develop enough to grab my interest and heart. Time permitting, only ask that you give it until the end of Episode 4 to see if that changes your perspective. My re-watch sessions of My Dearest usually starts there. Thank you for all you do.
Ooh, that’s useful information, thanks Al! ❤️ I’ll keep that in mind for when I eventually give it another try!
Hi, if I pay you a monthly fee will that remove the adverts? Regards, Marjolein
Hi there Marjolein, thanks for your question!! I currently don’t have that set up, but I am intrigued to explore it, and so I will look into possibly getting that into place in the next couple of weeks, hopefully! If I do, I will make an announcement, but I’ll also be sure to let you know! Thanks! KFG ❤️
Agree, way, way too many advertisements on this site.
Hi Marjolein, I looked into your suggestion, but I’m very sorry to say that the option to have a membership that then offers an ad-free browsing experience on the site, is just not within my reach right now. The set-up cost is quite high, and very involved, and I just don’t have the bandwidth for that right now, on multiple fronts, including cost.
I also wanted to say, I do really need the ad revenue as I’m doing this full-time, so taking away the ads completely is not an option. I have already reduced the ad serving on the site (which has reduced my ad revenue by 30%), but if the ads really bother you, and you’d like to also support me financially, instead of the option you suggested, you might wish to consider signing up for my Patreon page, and then using an ad blocker service for when you browse the site? I’m sorry and thank you for your support. 🥲
Hi
Did you post a full review and thoughts on The First Frost? I can’t seem to find it. Let me know. Thank you
Hi there Jenny!! I haven’t finished writing my review of The First Frost; it should be out in the next few weeks! ❤️
hi FG
I can’t believe you’ve not reviewed Mr Sunshine; it’s a magnificent show, how could you not?
Maybe a group watch?
lots of love
Ange
Hi I just subscribed to your blog I love the Hatsune Miku chibi character please follow my blog too
Hi! I recently watched Tell Me That You Love Me (Jung Woo Sung and Shin Hyun Been) and totally fell in love with the show. I thought I’d bring it to your attention in case you weren’t aware of it. Jung Woo Sung was phenomenally expressive while playing the ML who was mute and used sign language.
Hi mj! Thanks for reminding me about this drama! I hadn’t been in the mood for it when it first came out, and I’d had vague good intentions of going back to it, but with so many other shows on my list, I mostly forgot about it! 😅 I’ll bump it up the list to give it a look soon, thanks! ❤️
Hello, I am a casual reader/lurker who’s been browsing your writeups since 2022 and I’ve recently been IP-banned on your homepage (https://thefangirlverdict.com/contact-me/) for whatever reason (I suspect that this was caused by my having many tabs open while accessing your blog, causing the server to mistake my accessing the website as a DDOS attack).
In any case, I’d like to ask if you could remove the ban and explain why it had been implemented in the first place, thank you!
Hi there, I’m sorry about that – I recently got banned from my own site, on 2 browsers 🙈🙈 I’ve traced the problem to a plugin that I was using, which I’ve since uninstalled and removed all traces from my site, as well as cleared all my site caches. If clearing your browser cache doesn’t solve the issue right away, the banned message should go away within a couple of days, like it did for me. Again, apologies for the inconvenience, do let me know how it goes! ❤️
Hello again, I’ve since cleared my cookies and cache and can access your homepage again now! Thanks so much (and sorry for any alarm I may have caused)! I was just worried that I had inadvertently done something/installed some malware on my own device to warrant the ban haha. Sorry that it happened to you too.
On an unrelated note, thank you for your super-detailed and easily-comprehensible reviews. Ever since I got into KDramas with Moonlight Drawn by Clouds, I’ve read your drama reviews as a way of allaying that post-drama withdrawal syndrome haha. The organisation of your posts and the analysis/insights you weave into them make for really delectable commentaries that never get boring even with the second or third re-read. I’m glad your blog’s got the popularity it deserves and I hope you keep deriving joy from this passion!
Oh, that’s great that you’re able to access the home page again now! Yay! Thanks for letting me know! 😊
Thanks, too, for your affirmation and encouragement, it means a lot. 🥲 So glad to know that you enjoy the reviews enough, that you would even re-read some of them! 🥰 That’s made my day, thank you. ❤️
:)) I especially enjoyed the ones on My Country and Chicago Typewriter haha. You’re great at this, I hope you keep writing for as long as you’re willing/able to (this sounds like an econs essay now lol)!
Aw, thanks, that’s so interesting that those are two of your favorites, considering that neither of those are shows that I flat-out loved, ie, I enjoyed them to varying degrees, and with caveats. I’m really glad to know that even reviews of shows that I didn’t have hearts-in-eyes for, can be enjoyed so well. Thank youu 🥰🥰
Can we pleaseeee have have a seperate FULL LIST OF MOVIES too😁 would be really grateful <3<3
Hi there Himanshi! I don’t have the bandwidth to create a separate list of movies, BUT, I do have a list of “short drama things” which includes movies, and any series that is 10 eps or under. That might be easier for you to sift through for the movies that you’re looking for? You can check it out here! 🙂
I don’t know how to contact you, and I even don’t know your name, but I had to tell you that your analysis of Moonshine and Valentine was perfect!!! It was like I was writing it myself! You must be a very intelligent and wonderful person!
Hi team, I just wondered if there is a list of best “dramas with a mature protagonist”? Ones that spring to mind are My Mister, Misaeng (because Oh Sang-shik), Navillera (very mature), Misty, … any thoughts?
Manukajoe — I don’t know of an actual list, but a couple that spring to mind are The Light in Your Eyes, aka Radiant, and Dear My Friends. Both of those are what you termed “very mature”.
Hi Kfangirl and community, has anyone already seen the sequel of Someday or One Day? I guess it will be a while until we get English subtitles so it might be nice to hear from someone who has already seen it and find out whether our main characters got the ending they deserved (without spoilers, of course ;). Thank you so much Kfangirl for recommending this show as I probably would not have come across it otherwise <3
Hi unnie~! I’m looking for a lighthearted romedy k-drama! I have already watched hometown chachacha. I’m looking for something with the same vibe like weightlifting fairy kim bok joo, since I liked that one a lot <333 what k-dramas can I binge watch? It’s fine if there is mild violence, I want it to be full of romance and comedy and which you can watch in one go without hesitation! Example- From now showtime, or goblin! School romances are also preferred, if you have any in mind!
Thankyou in advance <3
Hi Kfangurl, have you watched the variety show Young Actor’s Retreat that aired recently? It brings together the casts of Love in the Moonlight, Itawon Class, and the Sound of Magic, and oh-my-goodeness I watched it for Ji Chang Wook but became a Park Bo Gum fan overnight (I was already a fan of Seobok but didn’t know PBG was Seokbok). It’s the most hilarious and heartwarming experience to see the actors interact with each other, and as a viewer to get to know their personalities. It was so fun that all of us who watched it are in serious withdrawal.
Kfangurl,
Thank you for your reply. I need to share, nay, let’s say unload what’s been bugging my brain. I hope you don’t mind since I don’t know who to share my thoughts with. You love watching dramas so I hope you allow my grumbling and rambling here.
I’m still suffering from the after effect of watching Yanxi Palace and The King’s Woman. So you can say I’m kind of tired of palace intrigues and power struggles and goings on. I watched both without reading any review, didn’t know there was any. Both left me a wreck, particularly The King’s Woman.
I need to get out of this hangover, that’s why I asked you earlier about She Was Pretty and What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim. I thought I should switch over to Kdrama for a change. Friends highly recommended the two above mentioned dramas, saying I would enjoy and laugh a lot since both are categorized as romcom. I accidentally came across your blog, wish I’d known about it earlier. I guess I’ll start with She Was Pretty since you said you liked it better.
So thank you and keep up your good work of sharing good reviews of Kdramas.
She Was Pretty is a very nice drama, I liked it a lot. Not one of the greats, but a very typical and nicely done romcom.
Thank you for your comment. I certainly enjoyed watching it though I must admit Park Seo-jun was outshone by Choi Si-won who plays Shin-hyuk.
Agree!
I just wished the scriptwriter had let the story line flow along its natural course where Hye-jin partnered Shin-hyuk because they really got along well together, ditto Sung-joon with Ha-ri. So there would be two leading couples. But somehow K-drama writers seem to have a fixated idea that the ML somehow has to get the girl in the end, no matter what. (Understandable, as the ML gets paid more too). Shin-hyuk as the second ML suffered from the so-called second male lead syndrome where he didn’t just lose the girl but also his anonymity, his consolation was getting the viewers’ votes.
Hi yanna, welcome to the blog! I’m glad you found me! You might be interested in these couple of Dear KFG posts that I wrote a while ago: dramas to make your day better and guilty pleasure dramas. You can also browse my full range of Dear KFG posts here.
You might also like to browse my Full List of reviews here.
I hope that helps! ❤️
PS: I edited your comment to include a spoiler tag, since folks who read your comment may not have seen The King’s Woman and may not want to be spoiled. To use the spoiler tag, just highlight the section you want hidden, then click on the [+] icon and name your spoiler. That’s it! 😃
hi KFG,
i just finished money flower – the first time, needles to say i was tripping, high on the brilliancy and unimaginable high iq of this drama and the beyond impressive acting of jang hyuk. somehow i mentioned it to ele, on the open thread of the last episodes of “autumn…”, (you can see it there), and she suggested to may be make a list of his dramas.
due to this an idea came to my mind which i shared with ele and she thought that it is a “brilliant” idea (i am quoting her), here it is:
“but listen, an idea came to my mind, see what you think about it. how about we have a similar to our group discussions now, discussions on certain actors/actresses that either KFG decides or us as a group. so every time we choose another candidate, and discuss their work in general, (dramas, movies) like YAI, jang hyuk, lee byung hun, JCW, chen kun, ni ni, wang kai and many more interesting actors. wouldn’t that be something different and interesting? we can attract fans for every artist we choose. and that can be not weekly, but may be even monthly, so we have a chance to check out the dramas that people suggest, and then share our notes.”
i understand that that would be additional work for you, (and you have a limit of your time and energy) but if you do like the idea, may be we can think of a solution, like give up something else and introduce this in exchange. or may be we can sort of manage it on our own, i mean you do not need to post reviews or pictures, or may be very minimal, and we will deal with the rest. you’ll just pick there sometimes.
after all we all have our favorites, and there are many passionate fans. wouldn’t a sight like this attract all these fans, being able to brag about their most favorites? from what i have seen, we can really get carried away with those.
what do you think?
Having recently finished the Kdrama, “Live Up To Your Name” I looked to see if there was a review on your site. Having not found a review I would like to recommend this Kdrama to your viewers. The ML had to play 3 different types of personalities & he gives a outstanding performance. The story deals in time travel, acupuncture, modern medicine & a sweet love story. In the beginning the ML is a bit quirky but his personality grew on me as I watched the development of where the story was going. I looked forward to each episode of anticipation.
Thank you…..
I would also love to see a review on Live Up To Your Name!
I’m new to the site – found it while looking for Cdrama reviews. I’ve always wished there was a Dramabeans-type blog with quality recaps and reviews for Cdramas, and here it’s been all the time. I really like the review and recap style and have spent the past few days reading the ones for all the dramas I’ve seen and loved 🙂
There’s an old drama I would love to see recapped/reviewed – Mars. I don’t even know if it can be found on any legal sites though.
i had siwan on my radar for a while, after misaeng. accidentally discovered he’s ML in run on, and although nothing pointed to greatness in this drama (and the FL was from chuno, which i love, but not her), i decided to check it out. and i am pleasantly (very pleasantly) surprised, to say the least.
i am only on episode 4, but already totally invested. it is easy on the eyes and easy on the heart, but it’s just amazingly realistic, kind of like our blues. although it is a very different topic, but the same approach, and brings up a lot of different questions.
siwan does not disappoint, although you can recognize his mannerisms, but it kind of even warms your heart (i loved his character and him in misaeng), and shin se-kyung is surprisingly good too in this role.
KFG, it might be something of interest to you, and may be even the group, depending of how you’ll decide to proceed with our group watches.
Hi Eda, I’ve already reviewed the show, and while a lot of folks loved the show, its brand of quirk never quite worked organically for me. You can see my review here.
yes, did go to your “here” and read more than half of your review, as i was so curious to see what exactly in this drama did not sit well with you. i am going to post my comment on the comment thread for this drama. and thank you for that.
Extraordinary Lawyer Woo. I’ve only seen a single episode but I’m excited. Park Eun Bin is perfectly casted and I’m excited to see her act in a more eccentric role since Hello My Twenties. Episode 1 is immediately interesting, funny (like
laugh out loud) and heart warming. Of course it’s just episode 1 but I think everyone should give it a try.
Dear fangirl,
I am watching ‘To My Star 2’ currently, and I AM OBSESSED!! Please do write a review on it. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show, especially after ‘My Liberation Notes’.
Thanks!
Dear fangirl,
I used to be a regular kdrama watcher, watching every new kdrama that aired that caught my attention but since the last year, I have been in a ‘kdrama slump.’ I did watch some one off kdramas like business proposal and hometown cha cha cha but I miss being excited by kdramas. Any recommendations on how to get my kdrama groove back again?
Adore your blog, have been reading it since the last 5 years!!
May I suggest My Liberation Notes, it’s reignited my interest in K Dramas. It’s the same writer as My Mister. A slow slice of life.
I wish I could say I like this series but I’m finding so slow, nobody is talking, only walking & eating. Disappointing for this viewer.
One thing I love about K dramas is that you know what people are thinking while they are not talking. In those blessed C dramas they never shut up!
Very funny, Joe – but also very true 😂
Hi there Nk!! Thanks for enjoying the blog! In terms of getting out of a kdrama slump, you might find this recent Dear KFG post helpful.
I recently really enjoyed Twenty Five Twenty One (review here), so you might want to take a look at that. Alternatively, to switch things up for a bit, you might want to try J-reality series Old Enough (review here) which I found adorable and fun. I hope that helps! ❤️
Try Extraordinary Attorney Woo. It’s heartwarming and funny. Park Eun Bin is awesome as the titular character.
Thought truthfully I’ve only seen the first 2 episodes of Extraordinary Lawyer Woo, lol. So maybe it’s too early to recommend it. Here are come recent dramas I’ve watched in the last 3 years that I’ve enjoyed. (I too am going in and out of a drama slump):
Hope you find something to quench your drama drought. If you do end up trying any of these I would interested in your opinion (positive or negative). 🙂
Thanks again for writing an article for my last blog post idea about archetypes! I loved it and shared it with some of my friends who watch kdramas too.
I had another question for you. I did a quick search of your site, but didn’t find anything.
Can you give us a quick explanation of sageuks? I have seen a few, but I’d like to understand more about them. The different types: fusion sageuk, etc., recommendations in each category, how they are produced (if you have any insight), why they seem to be longer than other dramas, etc.
One more I just thought about.
I have a number of friends I want to introduce the joy of kdramas to. Recommendations are always tricky, so I’m looking for shows that would be easy for them to get into and ‘catch the vision’. What are some kdramas that are easy for anyone to enjoy?
Thanks so much,
Hi T, so glad that you liked the post I wrote in response to your last questions! Thanks for your new questions.. let me think about them, and see what I can come up with! I’m currently drowning a bit, in a bunch of conflated deadlines, but will see what I can do, after I have more breathing room.
Thanks for your patience! ❤️
Love Reading Your blog, Fighting
I’m looking for someone to SPAZZZ WITH after watching Love and Leashes (on Netflix, Feb 2022). It’s refreshing to see a BDSM relationship presented in such a way that it doesn’t come across as cringey like 50 Shades or hardcore like a Joey Hill book (anyone read any out there, you’d know what I mean). It’s a movie so no 16-episodes of story fillers, 2nd leads and unnecessary plot twists to wait for the fl and ml to get it on.
Hope to see a review on this movie.
Aiki4640, it just so happens that a few of the folks on Patreon watched it too, and several of them have been chatting about it on the Deep Dive zone today. Thought I’d mention it to you, since you’ve just joined us on Patreon and therefore now have access! ❤️
Ah, I was just going to reply to this, but I see you’ve taken care of it…
Yes, Aiki4640, several of us (me, Shahz, JJ, Leslie…) have expressed our appreciation for this movie over on Patreon. If you scroll through the recent posts on the link KFG gives, you should see our “mini reviews” there.
Greetings Kfangurl,
Today I have a question to ask and a recommendation to make.
Here goes the suggestion first…..
Because of your iconic drama post, i have started watching vintage/retro dramas. Recently finished watching “All About Eve”. And oh man, what a watch it was!! Though the show is 20 something year old, it felt fresh. It was a treat to have Jang Dang Gun and Chaerim on my screen as our OTP. Everything about this show, acting, story, direction,music, is absolutely fantastic.
So, Fangurl, my suggestion is , what if we have a vintage/retro drama for our group watch this time. By doing so , the new drama fans will come to know about these gems and it will be trip down the memory lane. 😊
As for my question….
Drama world is created my the gods named Directors….we see this world through their lenses. When a drama is a hit or a flop, we only talk about the actors and not many times about the directors who has made them.
So my question is, could you talk about some of the best directors of kdrama universe over the years?
Hope this time at least you will have the time to answer my question.
Cheers ☺️
Hi KS, thanks for the suggestion! We can consider some retro dramas for the next group watch – as long as they are available to stream legally! Also, thanks for your question, I’ve added it to the list. In case you’re wondering, I do plan to write a post in response to your recent question on the Snowdrop controversy.. hopefully sometime this week! ❤️
We did have My Girlfriend is a Gumiho last time. That’s retro I think?
That’s definitely retro! 😃🤩
Yeah…..it is ☺️
I forgot….my mistake.
Hi
I am sooo happy to hear from you. It has made my day 😊
Looking forward to your post on the topic.
I’m looking for advice and/or recommendation about getting a vpn to extend my viewing options from the USA in Netflix, Amazon and Viki. Will it work? I do not have one. Recently I was watching Sungkyunkwan Scandal on Viki but it was suddenly pulled from my area without any warning.
I’m afraid to sign up for Viki+ because shows are may not available in my area. Amazon Prime also has many programs that are unavailable in my area. I would like to see Snowdrop but am afraid that if I sign up for Disney+ it won’t be available in my area. So…is getting a vpn the answer?
Any recommendations for which brand?
Thanks in advance for your help. So many kdramas….
Hi Su San, I’ve heard lots of people talk about being able to use VPN to access Netflix content in other regions, and I’ve used VPN to access Viki in other regions as well. I haven’t personally tried with Amazon, but I do think that if you’re keen to access content in other regions, a VPN is a good tool to have.
You might like to check out this article, that lists some of the most popular VPN services out there specifically for streaming content, the price plans, and the pros and cons of each one. Some might have a free trial period, which you might like to take advantage of, to try out the service before committing to a paid plan. I hope that helps! ❤️
By and large, I do not believe that Japanese movies and dramas compare well to what the Koreans have been producing in recent years. They need another Akira Kurosawa. However, there are a small number that I thought were excellent, and I would like to encourage others to look into them.
The first is Her Love Boils Bathwater. Best Picture at the Hochi Film Awards and Japanese Movie Critics Awards. Rie Miyazawa won multiple awards as Best Actress. Great performances from all the supporting cast.
Next is Hula Girls — multiple award winner that tells the true(?) story of the attempt to save the economy of a dying coal town by building a Hawaiian resort. The lives of everyone involved gets changed. There are laughs and tears along the way.
Finally comes Departures– another award-winner, it tells the story of a failed cello player who returns to his hometown and finds a job as a ritual mortician. He is subjected to prejudice by everyone around him, including his wife. In the end, everyone finds growth.
All three of these films are tightly-written. Many movies are filled with scenes that serve no purpose other than to expand the story to two hours — not these three. Every scene, every character is germane to the plot.
I’ve seen some excellent Japanese TV recently: The Many Faces of Ito, Kantaro Sweet Toothed Salaryman, Midnight Diner, Tokyo Girl, Samurai Gourmet, and a few others
I watched Departures many years ago, around the time when it first came out. It has become the one Japanese movie that really moved me that I would need a moment to collect myself after watching. I was bawling at so many points in the movie. The story, the script (although I was watching the English-subbed version), and the acting was superb. I cried even when I re-watched it over the years. I’m hoping that it gets shown on Netflix one of these days so people can start talking about this masterpiece again.
Hi 👋 I just watched the movie More than blue from 2009 as I noticed the Taiwanese drama version is being shown on netflix and wanted to watch the Korean movie first so I could compare them.
I then stumbled across a video Lee Seung Chul no one else more than blue OST which is over 8 mins long but seems to be from a totally different version of the movie I just watched but with all the same cast. Infact some scenes are the same but have different set background or totally different school uniforms, while other scenes weren’t in the movie at all but actually made sense and helped me understand the movie ending.
Was there a major reshoot during the making of this movie or a directors cut that had a lot of deleted scenes as the OST video made a lot more sense than the original ending.
@phl1rxd – I found The Exchange. It’s weird though because I had to hit “forgot password” and create a new log in but I had never created a password to begin with. I guess it was just letting me onto the home page and a few articles because it recognized that I was a Patreon member just because I’m responding from an email. 🤕 After typing that, I realize that makes zero sense because that’s how I was still trying to access The Exchange with no success.
I’ve reset my non-existent password 😉 but I don’t think I’ll be hanging around The Exchange much. I kinda don’t like the set up. (No offense to KFG if she sees this. After all, it’s not as if she set it up.)
@KFG @Everyone – Is anyone watching The King’s Affection? I’m in love with Kdrama again! I’ve always loved the trope of girl disguised as boy but I think this is the best set up/reason for it that I’ve ever seen.
I was so sure that
@Beez – you talked me into it – on E1 now. 😉 I think I can fit one more on that gigantic plate of KDramas! 🤣😂😆😅 Let’s hope this one is good!
@phl1rxd – My fingers are crossed🤞. I’m excited for a new twist on an old trope.
@Beez – Done with first 2 episodes and I am in on this one. Yes, this is different and you need a certain viewing lens but I like it.
@j3ffc – Yes she most certainly is. Park Eun-bin is kicking a$$ and taking no prisoners. She shows up, as Beez says at the end of E2 but she surely makes a statement for the future.
@phl1rxd – now I just need to figure out how to use KFG’s patreon site so we can discuss it as the episodes air. I hear KFG has an open discussion area on Patreon but even if someone replies to me directly, I can’t figure out how to get to wherever their comment came from (received by email). (Too many times without the context of what I said, I don’t recognize what they’re answeringb and even if I do, I can’t figure out how to go from my email to the right Patreon thread/page. It usually takes me to the latest post of KFG’s.)
@Beez – The Exchange is rocking. 💥🧨💥🧨Boom! I can barely keep up. I would love to discuss this over there because this drama has such a different take. When I get a reply to one of my comments, I get an email letting me know “Fangurl (for example) has replied to my comment” and I click in that email and it takes me right there.
That being said I just cleaned out my inbox and I have nothing to test this against. Hmm…bear with me Beez and let me see if I can get someone to do a test…I will reply to your question once done and verify that if it takes me directly back to that particular comment.
@phl1rxd – You’re awesome! So this is how the email that I receive when someone replies to me on Patreon looks. I’ve clicked on everything that’s a link, but nothing takes me to the actual thread (or place) where I must’ve made a comment. Obviously, this example was probably from Kfangurl’s Patreon where she talked about Squid Game prior to her official SG review on the actual blog, but in most cases someone replies on Patreon, and I have no idea which comment they’re relying to or which Patreon thread it was from (*stupid memory*). But no matter what I click on the email, it takes me to the Patreon home page.
@Beez – sorry so late getting back to you on this! I understand exactly what you are saying. I am reaching out to Fangurl on this. I will post back to you on this thread.
@Beez – here is something helpful to do right away – Bookmark the Exchange Page to get to it quickly. Not sure how to do this on your phone Beez.
@phl1rxd – I downloaded the Patreon app and that is easierv to navigate but it has it’s own different set of issues
Thanks phl1rxd. My email is so out of control that I’m just now seeing some posts directed to me.🥴
So sad! My drama plate overfloweth and this will have to wait. But one question: is Park Eun-bin as fantastic in this as I think she might be?
@j3ffc – I’m not familiar with this actress but the first episode is entirely the younger version of the actors and the majority of the second episode as well.
Interesting! She is the female lead, so it’ll be interesting to hear what you think of her performance as the show goes on. I really liked her character in the Age of Youth shows and have enjoyed her work since.
@j3ffc – I’ll be sure to let you know about the actress. You’re right that there are too many new dramas right now. It’s hard to decide what to watch, and what to binge later. My problem has been never getting back to the shows that, because of time, got pushed to the Monster watchlist.
Oh she was great in Hot Stove League. I really liked that show.
@manukajoe – I agree 100% with you Joe – she was very, very good in that.
I liked HSL too and agree that Park Eun-bin was excellent in it, but it was an ordinary sort of role, as much as I enjoyed her character’s trajectory. If you haven’t seen “Age of Youth”, I do recommend it heartily. It’s a bit of a slow reveal over two whole seasons, but she is so charismatic in a complex and engaging role that she practically steals the show despite being part of a strong overall ensemble cast.
I still haven’t seen “Brahms” yet, despite KFG’s strong recommendation, but that is also in the Big Playlist for a future watch.
@Beez – I seriously want to pinch Kim Geon’s cheeks – he is that darn adorable. What a cutie pie!
Currently watching it. Looks promising — i’m at Episode 3. I hope it’s good right till the end.
Hi, I am a huge fan of your reviews and loved your in-depth analysis of the shows that often offers insightful perspectives.
I would like to highly recommend a Chinese Movie called “Better Days” (2019) that is around 2hours 15mins. It is one of the shows that I find it around the same level as “My Mister” (2018) and would like to hear your opinions about it. Cheers and thanks in advance if you do review it.
Hi Tess! Thanks for the recommendation!! I’ve added it to my list, and I’m looking forward to checking it out! ❤️ Also! I’m really glad to hear that you enjoy the reviews!! 🥰
Hi Tess – I did see this and it was very moving. I initially watched it for the two leads who I think are very good actors – Zhou Dong Yu (she is just pure magic) and Jackson Yi (he was outstanding in Longest Day in Chang’an). They were both very good in this movie.
Oh it’s on Youtube!
Hi KFG thought this article might interest you 🙂 https://www.salon.com/2021/10/10/k-dramas-asian-men-tv-crash-landing-on-you/
Thanks lots for this, @manukajoe!! Fascinating read, and it really brings out the layers of personal implication behind the phrase “representation matters.” Thank you for sharing! ❤️
I need similar for white women 😀
@manukajoe – Maybe I should read the link you provided first (I’m going to) but my first knee-jerk reaction is “you’re a woman?????!”
Not as far as I know 🙂
@manukajoe – I’m relieved. You think tough know a person and… Don’t want any surprises. 👍
I have subscribed to your patreon but I dont know how to block the ads or sign in. Help! I did the $5 a month one.
Hi Elizabeth!! Thank you so much for signing up to join me on Patreon!! I truly appreciate your support! ❤️❤️
In terms of adblock, what I meant to say is, with the $1 signup, feel free to use an adblocker on the site without guilt (because your monthly support more than makes up for it). You could perhaps try this adblocker, or if you mostly visit the site on mobile, you could consider trying this one if you’re on iOS, or this one, if you’re on Android.
As for signing in on Patreon, you can do so here. You can also access all my Patreon content available to your tier, via the Patreon app, which you can find on Apple’s app store here, or on Google Play here.
I hope this helps, let me know if you have further questions! ❤️
@Elizabeth Carmichael – I was having trouble to but since I’ve downloaded the app, it’s much easier.
Dear kfangurl,
IM SO PROUD OF YOU. As one of your first website followers and still is. i seldom comment since im not good in writing english.. I seen you grown like my child.. if you can only see my big happy smile. Reading you will try to review Squid Game.. looking forward to this review.. i like move to heaven and dp more. i went over your list and notice you have reviewed Signal(?) and Voice Season 1..our fave jang hyuk is in that. Take care and Keep safe my dear kfangurl. im always be here supporting you.
Ahh, thanks simple, it’s so great to hear from you! Thank you for all of your support!! Isn’t it so nostalgic, to think back to when I first started this blog?? Thank you for telling me that you’re proud of me.. I feel the lurvee. 🥰🥰 Thank YOU, for sticking with me, all this time! ❤️
I’ve started on D.P. and hope to review it at some point, but I need to finish writing my review of Squid Game first. As for Signal and Voice.. I started Signal but found the serial murders hard to watch so haven’t tried again yet, and I just.. never got around to checking out Voice. 😅 Truly, too many dramas, so hard to prioritize! 😝
Hugs to you, simple! ❤️❤️
Hi, if you haven’t already, I highly recommend the modern Chinese drama “To Love.” The narrative in the forms of flashback for the first 1/3 of the show is very different from the vast majority of Chinese dramas I’ve watched but effective. The cinematography (filmed in Yunnan province as opposed to Shanghai), pacing and music scores/OSTs were so well done. Acting was top notch- the main actor Kenny Lin is apparently quite popular but it’s my first time watching him and he was utterly delightful in his portrayal of an undercover narcotics officer/restauranteur. And as a bonus, this show is not dubbed and hearing the actors’ real voices was a treat for me. Really hope more Cdramas will emulate this gem of a production.
Thanks for the recommendation, Volta! I’ve added it to my list! ❤️
Dear Kfangurl,
You are my go-to source for K-dramas to watch. I’ve watched many dramas based on your reviews, and they never disappoint. There was one drama that I watched even though you dropped it, and it was all because V of BTS was in that drama. Being a middle-aged ARMY, I cannot pass up on anything related to BTS! 🙂
My question is, why do K-drama writers love to have either the male lead or the female lead disappear for a year or more at the end and come back unannounced? Some of the reasons for their disappearance kind of make sense, such as going abroad for medical treatment or some kind of business training. However, the ridiculous thing is during the time the OTP is apart, there is no communication at all. While one is pining for the other, not knowing when the beloved will return, all of a sudden they show up to surprise them. Another ridiculous plot is, the lead disappears without a trace and is presumed dead, but a few years pass, they show up alive and healthy, to be reunited with their loved one. I don’t understand why the writers make viewer suffer for the majority of the series wondering if the two leads will be together, and when they finally are, one has to go away or seemingly is killed, only to show up out of the blue later.
Sorry, I clicked post before I was finished commenting. Just want to thank you for all the reviews and the commentaries you’ve posted. You’re a great writer. Keep us the good work!
Hi there Molu16!! Thanks for your question, let me chew on this for a post, and see what I can do to answer your question! Also, I’m super glad to hear that you enjoy the blog! ❤️
I appreciate it, Kfangurl! Looking forward to your post!
Hello,
I am a middle-aged American male Navy Officer, who while living in Okinawa Japan about three years ago started watching Asian Drama series so far about 18 Korean, 10 Japanese (to include, Anoiri and Terrace House), and two Chinese.
As you know I am not the target demographic but there is just something about them. It is hard to describe but I just really enjoy them I imagine it is exaggerated but I just like the innocence and simpleness.
I am now watching Put Your Head on my Shoulder (episode 1o) which I discovered a few days ago from your site.
One of the Japanese shows I watched a couple of years ago has a remarkably similar storyline Good Morning Call and was wondering who is more “likable and cute” in your opinion Haruka Fukuhara or Xing Fei.
These shows are so similar and I like them both but so far I am leaning towards a good morning call.
Thanks
Charles
Hi there Charles! Welcome to the blog!! You’ll find that you’re in good company; there are lots of male drama fans here! 😃 I hope you’ll like hanging out with us! As for my pick between Haruka Fukuhara or Xing Fei.. I thought they were both cute and charming, though I personally gravitated towards Xing Fei a little extra. 😉
Hi
Greetings from India !!
First of all let me thank you for being a becon for someone like me who is new to the K-dramverse .
On your recommendation i watched “Coffee Prince” ( that too twice in quick succession ☺️. I watched a couple of them on my own, like It’s Ok to not Be Ok, Crash Landing on You, and they were good) But Coffee Prince blew up my mind through its story, superb acting, direction and last but not the least , the sizzling chemistry between the OTP.
This drama has set a standard for me now. I may not be able to watch anything below the set standard. So may I request you to please suggest some k- dramas as par with Coffee Prince.
And a small question( i hope, it shouldn’t sound stupid)… Doesn’t the name suggest the gender it is referring to in Korean language? I mean, in India , a name itself suggest whether the person is a male or a female. Can’ Kon Eun Chan ‘be a name for both male and female? Thanks .
@kfangurl – Another good 1-hour show is Swine Escape. It’s part of the 2013 MBC Drama Festival. It stars Park Ki-Woong whom I cannot stand and almost didn’t watch this because of my intense dislike for him as an actor. But I couldn’t resist the idea of a yangban being sold into slavery and feeling that oh-so-too-tight shoe on the other foot. As usual the Koreans know exactly the right amount of humor and just a smidgen of the tragedy to keep this light but still get its message across. It also features the ever wonderful Jo Woo-Jin.
I’m adding my suggestion here because I know your list is a mile long and two feet wide so don’t want you to feel obligated but I think this show did a good job for its single hour.
@kfangurl – I forgot to add, this show allllmost made Jo Woo-Jin likeable to me.
Dear kfangurl, I’ve been watching some older dramas lately, and I was wondering – how did the K-drama tropes that are oh-so-common today come to be? Was it something that happened gradually? Was there one (or a few) seminal dramas? What are your thoughts on this?
I love this question!