─ does the glory really matter ?

After lingering on my to-watch list for some time, I finally delved into 'The Long Ballad'—and I'm truly glad that I did. The well-crafted storyline and character development kept me engaged from the very first episode, with each subsequent installment revealing more secrets and complexities. I especially appreciated the focus on narrative and characters over mere romance, exploring both Tang and Ashile cultures. Exploring the Ashile people's episodes was particularly refreshing to see ─ as it isn't so common to see such dramas explore historical incidents from their settings.

The acting was remarkable across the board, with both leads and secondary characters delivering standout performances. Despite occasional moments where characters seemed to disappear, the drama ultimately struck a balance, allowing each character's development to shine. Another aspect I really liked is how both Li Changge and Ashile Sun were established as individuals ─ means we actually saw their morals, perspectives, and agency beyond just romantic involvement. They both had their own goals and protected each other while also caring for others which is not so common to see in dramas that prefer to focus on romance only.

Dilraba's portrayal of Changge's growth was particularly impressive, while Wu Lei's performance as Ashile Sun, especially in EP25 involving his mother's incident, was emotionally gripping.

While the director's style, especially evident in 'SOKP,' isn't entirely my cup of tea, I found the action scenes well-executed, particularly the Cuju game in EP1, which was truly epic. Occasionally, technical issues like echoes and camera positioning dampened the impact, but the strong storytelling and acting overshadowed these flaws.

The OSTs were a standout feature, as expected since I was familiar with some tracks even before watching the drama ─ and each song added depth to the storyline. The instrumentals were epic as well and showcases the hard work put in this project.


link to edit : https://youtu.be/BV1cR_6LW_Y

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─ don't be scared ,  i'm here

I don't even remember how many times I had been recommended to watch this series and after finally watching it, I can understand why people like it that much. It's undoubtedly one of the best historical Chinese dramas I've seen, excelling in writing, production, character development, and acting. The soundtrack and cinematography are also stunning.

I enjoyed how the series is divided into parts focusing on specific groups of side characters, adding depth to the main characters and storyline. The gradual development allows the audience to grow with and understand each character, with a well-balanced mix of heavy and comedic moments.

All of the cast did exceptional job at delivering their characters and improved the quality of this drama. For leads, both Wu Lei and Zhao Lusi knew how to shine their characters ─ not only with their interactions as a couple but also as individuals; Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang are characters that surely will be remembered for a long time. Especially EP48 and EP49 were such a cinema to watch and hold one of the most memorable scenes of the series. The symbolism, the tragic approach, pain, mourning and revenge was shown exceptionally.

Despite its length, it's quite binge-worthy as well. Grasped my attention from the very first episode ─ and had to say, the twist they bring to screen was mind-blowing. I love how everything is so connected and build the overall storyline step by step.

Definitely deserves all the recognition and definitely recommended!

Link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxplWeBw3y5iJMAN184YZOIZt0EHUAVco&si=RDMkt8afaZQyUk2x

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Keep walking. I will be right behind you.

This was one of the movies I had been procrastinating due to the heavy theme ─ although I heard nothing but positive reviews about it. It truly deserves recognition and praise, and no wonder has been one of the most memorable c-movies for many.

While the theme is quite heavy, it also needs a careful and realistic approach, which I think they did right. There wasn't any glorification or gaslighting. It was raw and candid. The characters, of course, had flaws ─ even the main lead because she also, like others, chose silence before becoming a victim ─ but those flaws were understandable and for some, relatable.

One of the aspects I like is that they hinted that bullies became the people they are because of their parents, but they didn't use it as an excuse to demand redemption from the audience. Because at the end of the day, it was their own choice to become that person and not a better person.

The acting was really authentic, especially when they used silence and their eyes to deliver emotions. Cinematography and soundtrack, as well as symbolism they used, were phenomenal, added another layer of depth and a fresh point of view to the story. Love the dialogues as well. They are so beautiful and meaningful.

I'm glad I finally gathered my courage to watch this movie and also glad that they gave us a glimpse of hopeful ending.


cinematography edit : https://youtu.be/QhmYcdiQM2Q

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You must stay alive for as long as I live.

Song of the Bandits was binge-worthy drama that brought its raw and aesthetic touch to familiar themes, and I enjoyed watching all episodes. There wasn't any unnecessary or dragging part, each scene delivered something specific and special.

Characters and their dynamics were beautifully written and, of course, with such cast, never doubted the acting quality. Each of them had this embodied presence in the story with their own roles that completed the whole puzzle effortlessly. Their goals, desperation and ambitions were beautifully portrayed from the way they carry themselves to their way of talking, dressing, walking - the details were picturesque.

And while I also think it deserves season 2, I liked the charm of its uncompleted ending as well, which is suitable for the times the story highlights. After all, those were times, many couldn't see the end of their own stories. It felt like they gave us a glimpse of someone's memories who also had many questions that they could only guess the answer.

The cinematography and shoots had artistic movie vibes, and action scenes were one of the best - with Kim Namgil in the cast, it was expected.

I would say, it worth the wait, from story to characters and the message each of them delivered, it was a beautiful watch experience. Came for Kim Namgil and Yoo Jaemyung and stayed for all the cast, story and their acting.

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