Choi Hee Jin

Review: Idol I

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THE SHORT VERDICT:

A warm, character-driven melodrama that wears a murder mystery on the surface, but is ultimately far more interested in healing, identity, and love — and the quiet courage each requires.

The plotting can be convenient and the thriller elements tend to be serviceable rather than sharp, but importantly, the emotional throughlines remain steady and sincere.

While it never quite recaptures the early spark, Show stays consistent in tone and delivers a tidy, heartfelt finish that feels earned, if not dazzling.

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Review: Motel California

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THE SHORT VERDICT:

This show isn’t for everyone – is, I think, the most accurate and important thing I could say about this drama. 😅

Characters and relationships tend to develop in ways that can lean messy &/or perplexing, and that is kind of reflective of real life, in a manner of speaking.

How well you take to that, will largely determine whether or not this show is for you, I think.

Additionally, Show works out to be a slow burn, but there’s ultimately a reward of warmth and contentment, for the patient.

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Dropped: The Impossible Heir

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Well, this was unexpected. 😅

Just last week, I’d told you guys, in my review of Knight Flower, that I’d decided to cover this show on Patreon, and that this one had grabbed me nicely – and right away.

In a slightly rollercoaster-esque turn of events, here I am, to tell you guys that I am now officially dropping The Impossible Heir, 5 episodes in. 🙈

I guess you just never know, y’know?

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Review: It’s Okay To Not Be Okay

| kfangurl

THE SHORT VERDICT:

A meaty, dark, whimsical melodrama that examines the difficulties faced by people suffering from trauma and mental illness, It’s Okay is not an easy watch at all.

There is lots to unpack, difficult feelings to feel, and even internal biases to examine. So if you’re looking for a fluffy rom-com, this is probably not for you, for right now.

However, it is remarkably satisfying to witness our characters’ journeys, because those journeys are teased out so organically, that all of the growth and progress feels earned and true.

Fantastic performances by our cast – with a special shout-out to Oh Jung Se for his impressively amazing interpretation of an autistic character – brings everything to life, and it’s not hard to get invested in our characters’ journeys.

There are a few bumps in the road, but overall, this proved to be a very satisfying watch.

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