A Disappointing Drag - Too Many Episodes for Too Little Plot

I had high hopes for this K-drama, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a huge letdown. From the very beginning, it was clear that the show was plagued by clichés. The storyline was so predictable that I could guess what was going to happen long before it did. The "surprise twists" were anything but surprising, and the characters felt like they were lifted straight out of a tired, overused formula.

But what really made this drama unbearable was the pacing. It was excruciatingly slow. Scenes dragged on with little to no progress, and the endless filler content made it feel like the story was just spinning its wheels. I found myself checking the time constantly, waiting for something, anything, interesting to happen. Sadly, that moment never came.

Honestly, this entire series could have been condensed into three episodes. There simply wasn’t enough substance to justify the length of the drama. Instead of a tight, engaging narrative, we got a drawn-out, tedious watch that felt like a chore to finish.

If you're looking for something fresh and exciting, skip this one. There are plenty of other K-dramas out there that offer much more in terms of storytelling and entertainment.

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A Rollercoaster of Emotions - My Dearest Review

"My Dearest" kicks off in an extraordinary fashion, immediately grabbing the audience's attention with a gripping and immersive first half. The intriguing plot and well-developed characters promise an unforgettable television experience. However, while the initial part of the series is a triumph, the latter half presents some challenges that diminish the overall impact.

The plot seems to undergo excessive acceleration in the second half, with numerous moments feeling rushed. This could be attributed to a desire to keep pace with the drama or swiftly resolve narrative entanglements. Unfortunately, this choice significantly affects the story's coherence and the depth of character development.

The final episode, in particular, leaves a bitter taste. The conclusion, perhaps dictated by the need to tie up all narrative threads hastily, lacks the satisfaction one would expect after such a promising start. Fans would likely have preferred a more nuanced and less hurried resolution.

Another aspect that might have influenced the second part of the series is the king's obsession, a theme that, in my opinion, was dealt with excessively heavily. This element risked overshadowing other aspects of the plot, leaving less room for the development of other storylines and making the entire experience somewhat monotonous.

In summary, "My Dearest" starts with brilliance that captures the viewer's heart, but the second half of the series introduces a series of rushes and questionable narrative choices. The final episode, in particular, falls short of expectations, leaving the feeling that the series could have offered much more. Despite these shortcomings, enthusiasts may still find value in the series, especially if they are willing to overlook some narrative stumbles.

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It’s not a masterpiece

The production felt underwhelming despite SBS’s efforts, with a script that struggled to stay engaging and special effects that fell short of impressive.

The revenge scenes and Kang Bit Na’s so-called “execution” lacked real impact and felt hollow. While the villains tried to appear despicable, they came off as one-dimensional, and the actors’ performances didn’t bring much depth. Even the smaller roles, like the journalist and the victims, were forgettable and didn’t add much to the story.

One aspect some viewers might appreciate—though I found it overly simplified—is the message that humans can be more cruel than demons. However, this concept felt forced and didn’t resonate emotionally. The dramatic shift in atmosphere after Kim So Yeong’s death and the hunt for J and Satan seemed disconnected and didn’t add much suspense. Kim Jae Young’s portrayal of Han Da On was unconvincing, and the supposed transformation in his character lacked any real intensity or depth.

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Thought-Provoking Drama with Mixed Suicide Messages

I must admit, I found this show to be quite captivating, yet I couldn't ignore the excessive focus on penalizing Yi Jae for his life-altering decision. It's worth noting that the show is backed by the Korean government, specifically in the realm of sports and culture, and given Korea's high suicide rates tied to work culture (a universal issue), this messaging felt off-putting. While the intention to convey the importance of finding purpose and the beauty in life is evident, the active punishment of someone who has chosen to end their life seems counterproductive. As someone who strongly relates to Yi Jae, this aspect of the narrative left me feeling uneasy.

Nevertheless, the stellar acting in this drama deserves applause, evoking powerful emotions within me, especially during the portrayal of the last body Yi Jae inhabits – a truly moving moment. The versatility of Seo In Guk, making it seem like he effortlessly stepped into various characters, is commendable.

The storyline also held my interest, with the concept of living in another person's body being a personal fascination of mine. Observing how the director navigated this plot added an enjoyable and intriguing dimension. Additionally, the inclusion of another plotline that Yi Jae is unraveling, beyond his own demise, brought an extra layer of complexity.

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“A Love Story That Heals: A Poetic K-Drama for Heartbreak”

I first got into this K-drama because of the clips circulating online—it seemed like a lovely story, and I was intrigued. Right from the start, I enjoyed it; the love story felt sweet and genuine, something simple but charming. But as the episodes went on, my feelings changed, and I found myself disliking parts of it, feeling frustrated at times with the back-and-forth between past and present. I’m not usually a fan of stories that blend timelines within episodes, and that did lower my rating a bit.

Still, by the end, I had fallen back in love with it. It’s a rare show that can take you on such an emotional journey, making you feel conflicted but ultimately touched.

The drama is only six episodes, which I think worked perfectly for the story. If it had been longer, I imagine they would have dedicated one part to the past and the other to the present. That could have been interesting too, but in the end, the shorter format brought an emotional intensity that hit me deeply. The reunion in the final episode was incredibly moving—it felt as though the actress was speaking directly to me, reaching out in a way that felt personal and genuine. It’s one of those rare scenes that stays with you, especially if you’re someone who’s experienced heartbreak.

I’d highly recommend this K-drama to anyone going through a tough time, particularly if you’re healing from a breakup and seeking something comforting and gentle. It’s a show that won’t overwhelm you with excessive drama; instead, it’s soothing in its simplicity, filled with quiet moments that feel like a balm for the heart. And I have to say, I’ll definitely be buying the book. It’s beautiful, truly a work of poetry that stays with you long after you’ve finished watching.

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A Heartfelt Drama That Feels Like a Warm Embrace

I initially regretted dropping this drama, but coming back to it, I’ve discovered a hidden poetry in its storytelling. Perhaps when I first watched it, I was in the mood for something fast-paced, full of action, or with a more intense plot. Now, watching it during a difficult time, I feel as though this K-drama wraps me in a gentle embrace. The acting is exceptional, allowing me to experience the characters’ emotions—betrayal, sadness, and a deep sense of longing—alongside them.

I would recommend this drama to anyone who’s looking for a slower-paced, comforting story that feels like a warm hug for an hour.

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WHAT A DRAAMAAAA

This drama exceeded my expectations in many ways, and having Jo Insung in the cast was a guarantee of quality from the start. His presence added a layer of excellence to the entire show.

I must admit that I didn't connect with the children's storyline as much as I had hoped. At times, it felt a bit too cloying and relied on clichés that I've seen before in similar dramas. However, this was a minor setback considering the depth and complexity of the adult characters' stories.

The various narratives involving the adults were emotionally powerful, with Joo Won's story being particularly heart-wrenching. I found myself shedding tears as I watched these characters navigate their challenges and personal growth.

One aspect I didn't appreciate was the open-ended ending. While it might hint at the possibility of a new season(I hope no!), I personally won't be tuning in for it. For me, the magic of this drama lies in the seniors' performances, and I believe that their stories have been beautifully told and don't necessarily need continuation.

Despite some violence and numerous sci-fi elements, this drama truly deserves the praise it has received. It's a solid 10, but it's also one of those shows that I won't rewatch in the future. The first viewing was a truly special experience, and it's one that I believe can't be replicated. Overall, a remarkable drama that tugged at my heartstrings and left a lasting impression

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Amazing cdrama that gives you motivation to study more!

That's soooo emotional, i loved it. I cried so much for Mi Qiao's death and for Ben Ben (at 30th episode where he watched a video leaved by her) I loved the relationship of each character I love the most Ben Ben and mi Qiao instead of Lin yang and Yu zhouzhou (sooo bored sometimes) And what about the other character? I love Chen ah, even at the end And I love the growing of the poor girl that became one of the most popular and with the high-grades. I really liked, it has a beautiful message beside it and it's 'study hard for reach your goal, don't choose something that you can regret and go on your way without pass some obstacle'. It's probably one of my favourite dramas, so addicting and it takes you in a deep and it's like you are inside the drama. Wow, i think that I really lived it!

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From Avoidance to Adoration: How a 2020 K-Drama Became a 10/10 Must-Watch After Four Years

When this K-drama was first released in 2020, I avoided it because I found it incredibly boring knowing who the culprit was from the start. However, four years later, I decided to give it a try as it was on my plan-to-watch list and had such a high rating. To my surprise, it turned out to be a 10/10 for me. The story was well-paced over all 16 episodes, and I could see the growth of the protagonist and his relationship with Cha Ji Won. The actor did an excellent job portraying the character, and the story flowed smoothly. I have nothing but praise for this drama.

Four years after its initial release, I finally decided to watch it, and I was pleasantly surprised. Despite knowing the culprit from the start, the drama managed to keep me engaged with its intricate plot and character development. Over the span of 16 episodes, the storyline was evenly distributed, ensuring there was never a dull moment. The growth of the protagonist was particularly well-done, showcasing a deep and evolving bond with Cha Ji Won.

The lead actor delivered a stellar performance, bringing depth and nuance to the character. His portrayal was compelling and authentic, making the character's journey believable and relatable. The chemistry between the lead characters was palpable, adding an emotional layer to the narrative that was both touching and intense.

In addition to the strong performances, the direction and writing were top-notch. The story was meticulously crafted, with each episode building upon the last, creating a cohesive and engaging viewing experience. The drama tackled complex themes and emotions, exploring the intricacies of relationships, trust, and redemption.

In conclusion, this K-drama exceeded my expectations in every way. It was a compelling, well-acted, and beautifully written series that kept me hooked from start to finish. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a drama that combines strong character development with a gripping storyline. For me, it's a definite 10/10.

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Just another makjang out there

Amidst the buzz surrounding this show, touted as the highest-rated TvN series of all time, I couldn't help but wonder what all the fuss was about. Yet, as is often the case, the reality fell far short of the hype. It seems these days that any production flaunting an attractive cast and lavish production values is promptly lauded, regardless of its glaring flaws in storytelling and reliance on tired clichés.

Initially, the premise held promise. Rarely do K-dramas dive into a story with the leads already married. However, the trope of the cold CEO female lead paired with the cheerful male lead has been beaten to death (cue memories of "My Demon"). The acclaim seems to stem largely from praise for the actors, cinematography, and OST, all crucial components of any successful show. But amidst all the glitz, does anyone even care about the story?

No one seemed to bat an eye when Haein miraculously emerged from brain surgery looking as glamorous as ever. Was I supposed to suspend disbelief entirely? And don't get me started on Park Sung Hoon's character, a disappointingly one-dimensional villain devoid of any real depth or nuance. The family dynamics, meanwhile, followed the tired chaebol archetype, culminating in a contrived unity against a common enemy. The lack of character progression and depth in Haein's reconciliation with her mother was glaring.

The writing, helmed by Park Ji-Eun, leaves much to be desired. The pacing is all over the place, with the initial episodes serving little purpose before a rush to shoehorn in crucial plot points towards the end. The shock tactics employed, notably the accident, felt contrived and did little to enhance the narrative. It's as if the showrunners were simply ticking boxes to fill the 16-episode quota.

Despite its shortcomings, I begrudgingly acknowledge the stellar performances of the cast and the visually stunning cinematography. However, these elements alone cannot salvage what is ultimately a hollow and superficial endeavor. If you value your time, steer clear of this overhyped disappointment.

Despite its flaws, QOT does manage to harken back to the standards of makjang dramas and those from 2016. In comparison to the K-dramas released in the past 4 or 5 years, it's passable. While it may not reach the heights of recent hits, it does provide a nostalgic nod to earlier drama conventions.

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good but…

The drama "Mon" wasn't bad at all—in fact, it started off great. I remember watching six episodes in two days, which is a lot for me. As it progressed, though, I found some scenes that were skippable.

I might be biased, but the prosecutor really carried the drama. His love for her was genuine, and I completely understood his reaction to her rejection, especially in the final scene.

For me, it was an 8, but the last two episodes felt poorly done or rushed. The fight scenes were cringeworthy, and the rest was dull.

This could have benefited from fewer episodes.

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A Triumph of Writing, Direction, and Acting

If you're on the fence about this show because of the plot, let me assure you: the writing, direction, and acting are absolutely stellar.

The storyline might not break new ground, and that's clear, but wow, the writing is phenomenal. Each character is crafted with such care, capturing the essence of the mid-2000s perfectly. The praise can't be overstated; every character, no matter how minor, is intricately developed.

Now, let's talk about the director. What a vision! The director's intelligence shines through, knowing exactly what will captivate the audience. The direction is gripping, with not a single dull moment, showcasing the director's remarkable vision.

The actors, oh my goodness, words fall short in describing their brilliance in their respective roles, especially the leads. The male lead is portrayed with such depth; the character is finely etched, and this role is a gift to him that he fully embraces. He's not just a good choice; he's the embodiment of perfection for this role.

As for the female lead, there's no doubt she is the ideal choice for the role; her character fits her like a glove. Kudos to her for taking on this role with such grace and strength.

"And she deserves immense credit for believing in the wonderful production team, even when many actors were hesitant to take on the male lead role in this drama. Yet, she persisted and waited for 2-3 years to meet Ryu Sun-jae in real life."

Hats off to the entire production team for their patience through delays and their unwavering confidence in the project. Despite the initial reluctance from other actors, they are a true source of inspiration.

For those considering whether to watch this because the plot seems average, trust me, the plot may not be revolutionary, but the writing is amazing, the direction is outstanding, and the acting is the cherry on top.

I thoroughly enjoyed this work and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a production that excels in every aspect. Don't be misled by a seemingly simple plot; it is the execution that makes this a true masterpiece.

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