Updated the review, as yes... I just realized this isn't a slow burn.

'Road Home' really shot up to be one of my fave dramas this year.

Let me just say I really enjoy everything about this show especially at the start, the angst and tension I really enjoyed it. This drama is focused on the main leads' romance. It is a mature and intense kind of romance. I felt that the drama did not drag even once they got together.

Hopefully the new watchers give this a try.

Things I love about the drama:
- Enjoyed how this drama didn't focus much on any other characters, but on the relationship of our main leads. There were no love triangle, maybe there were some annoying characters but it didn't put me off since the main leads actually brush them off, and the misunderstandings that happens in the drama get cleared out really quickly. I really love how they didn't drag anything, especially any problems that arises.

- It may be melodramatic, but it's not too heavy to take and once they got back together it became a feel good drama.

- It is a healthy and mature romance. After the main leads got back together, I love how understanding the ML and FL were with one another. And when apart, they were very independent.

- FL did shown some character development. As she became very understanding, especially with the ML's job, it was noticeable when they got back in a relationship.

- I really love the cinematography in this series, especially the views and scenery of 'Qining'. It just makes you want to travel there.

- The chemistry, I absolutely love the chemistry between these two main leads.

- Jing Boran did a wonderful job in portraying Lu Yanchen (ML). His character is complex, from a strict captain of the SWAT team, he also is a man of few words, and mostly he shows affection through actions, and I seriously love the micro expressions he does for his character. His eyes is very expressive: from a longing look, to hurt and tearful, and etc. I really felt butterflies, when it comes to him pulling the FL into a hug, cuddling her, just looking at her, and his kisses (Thank God, JBR is such a great kisser on screen) I absolutely love the final episode, where it shows the POV of his character and it really answered so many questions that came up while watching the series.

-Tan Songyun, really did a great job as Gui Xiao. It is my first time to watch her act, and I love how she brings her character to life. Her character is just so charming and at times childish (especially when she gets spoiled by the ML) Also like Jing Boran, she had the most expressive eyes. I seriously love the tension in the first few episodes with the ML, you know they were really longing for one another and wanted to pick up their relationship again.

Though when it comes to the main leads in a high school, it did felt kind of awkward especially with Jing Boran in a uniform; but that may be just me. But to be honest it didn't really bother me much afterwards.

Overall:
Definitely is in one of my top fave dramas, so hopefully everyone can give this a try. For re-watch value, absolutely going to re-watch this and to be honest while this was ongoing, I was already re-watching several episodes over again and especially the scenes I really like.

At the moment I'm still going through withdrawals with this drama, and may update this review again afterwards if something comes into mind.

Citeste mai mult

A hidden crush

I seriously adore this whole drama. Have lost sleep this week over the drama and really chose the express vip just to finish this earlier.

This is really a feel good drama. The plot and story are just simple, but realistic. It is straightforward, and I really love the pacing of this drama. Best to watch when you want to just destress, and also not go through any heavy or so many twist dramas.

To those who are worried about the age gap and if they get together early on the drama. DON'T WORRY, the male lead doesn't develop any romantic feelings for the female lead during the early episodes and realize his feelings for her when she is an adult. The age gap isn't much, it is just a 5 years difference in the drama (much better than the novel version of 7 years.)

This whole drama felt so relatable, especially having a crush on an older person. Starting with admiration for the other person, before it builds up to be a crush.

Things I loved about the drama:
- This drama really focus on just the main leads' stories. Despite many side characters, they do not take up the spotlight so much.
- I LOVE THE SIBLINGS DYNAMIC. Seriously! The bickering between Sang Zhi and Sang Yan was just so funny and adorable. I love despite them bickering most of the time, they were there for one another.
- Chemistry between the main leads are just out of this world. Seriously I enjoyed every scene between them. They always made me feel so giddy and 'butterflies in my stomach' kind of feel in every episode. It's been a while that I have really seriously like a cp. Seriously need these two on another drama in the future.
- A very healthy relationship with the main leads. They also try to clear out misunderstandings right away, especially the ML when he started to pursue the FL.
- The music, all the songs played in this drama was so good. I couldn't help but repeat these songs on repeat right now.
- Only a few toxic characters, but they did not ruin my mood so much on the drama. Aside from the toxic characters, I love how the other side characters have such a positive relationship with the leads.
- As mentioned earlier, I love how they represented how the feeling of admiration would build into the feeling of having a crush on someone.

Let me say...

Chen Zheyuan really brought life to the gentle and hardworking gege Duan Jiaxu. To be honest, this is the first time I have watched his drama; and seriously I am hooked on his acting here. I love how he does his micro expression here in the drama. He really pulled off this role so well. He really gave such elderly brother vibes in the first half on the drama, in contrast to Song Yan he was a very gentle and sweet brother. And I love how he was able to relay the feeling of changing and developing feelings to Sang Zhi later on in the drama.

Now Zhao Lusi, she nailed Sang Zhi's role so well. Especially that she also had to pull off acting like a fresh high school student early in the drama. She made me believe that she was still in high school with how she acted here, and her voice really made her sound like one too. She was able to convey the feelings of looking forward to seeing your crush, the uncertainty when Jiaxu started to pin for her later in the drama, and other kinds of emotions (as much as I would like to go into details, I will refrain in doing so to prevent any spoilers). I also heard Zhao Lusi, did so many things for this drama and every details she have done for this was a success.

Just another thing, but Victor Ma did a great job as being Sang Yan. He was such a comic relief also to this drama. But seriously like I've said earlier, his dynamic with Zhao Lusi acting as his sister was so realistic. They really did a great job showing how siblings are in real life.

Overall:
This is really such a simple plot. But I really can't get enough of this drama. It really is such a feel good drama, nothing heavy. Currently I'm still going through withdrawals on this drama, and definitely re-watching this again because I really can't get enough of this. I may or may not update this review.

Citeste mai mult

A drama I wish I can reset my mind to watch again for the first time.

I've been looking for another C-drama to watch, saw this was highly rated here on MDL and had a very interesting trailer that I've decided to watch this right away. I agree with a lot of the viewers here, that this drama was really good! I absolutely love the flow, the direction and writing for this series so much. I'll try to keep it spoiler free.

So before I go dabbling about the drama, for new viewers I think I need to address that there are issues that might trigger some.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Sexual Harassment and Murder
BUT!!! They are not too explicit in the drama, though I just wanted to mention it for those that might get trigger on these. For the sexual harassment, it was just for a few minutes and was on moving closer and a touch (again not too explicit); but it did felt uncomfortable while watching the scene unfold. While for the murder part, the scene is censored in a way, the part becomes black and white, and the surrounding does become blurry.

Also the drama does have CN police propaganda. But despite the trigger warnings and the propaganda going on in this drama, I really hope that you all give it a try!

Things I love about this drama:
- For a time loop drama, majority of the time loops that happened does not feel repetitive (the only time it kind of does is when they found out who the suspect was, but it doesn't really bother me)
- The main leads! I love how both are smart, yet are a bit opposite of one another. The FL acts more impulsive on her emotions (which can sometimes be frustrating at times in the drama), but it's nice that the ML is more on the rational side. A nice touch seeing how they compliment one another; like how the ML will pull back the FL, as he wants to talk and plan things out before doing any actions.
- I love how the ML has a character development through the series.
- Each loop they go through, you get pieces of information and it was so well done. Even the build up to the next episode or loop was also great.
- This drama had me on the edge of my seat most of the time, and made me feel all kinds of emotions! I would suddenly be happy, sad, frustrated, relief and etc. Not a lot of dramas have actually made me feel a huge range of emotions like this.
- Can I say that all the casts' acting was so amazing! Especially the main leads, the captain and the suspect (especially the suspect, I love the acting so much!)
- Each passenger had a role especially towards the end of the drama, and I really love how most of the passengers' back stories were fleshed out. I have to commend that it was nice how their back stories made them feel more realistic and not just them being as extras in the bus.
- The drama touched several topics, and it's really nice seeing these topics get addressed out. Such as justice system, cyber-bullying, victim blaming and how most/some people would just standby to watch despite something troublesome is happening in front of them.
- How the burnt wounds looked so realistic.
- The drama is not too heavy.
- There's no voice dubbing on this drama.
- I know the drama can still be okay without the romance, but I love how it was just subtle until the final episode. There will be hints and all, but not too much to distract you.

Cons:
- There are several unanswered questions, but I think it's okay that they didn't directly answer these, because I feel if they were explained, it might just ruin the drama. So I'll based it on the theories I have read on.
- The suspect motives felt underwhelming. I was thinking the motives will be more darker and sinister, but apparently not. The motive is still valid, but I felt it shouldn't have been focused on the bus. But then again, the suspect was not in the right state of mind.
- There are times where you want to yank your hair out because of several characters' actions, and sometimes want to question 'Why?'. But then again, it reminds you that we're all human and if under pressure that we sometimes do questionable things as well.
- There are no back story for the main leads, to be honest it would have been a nice touch to introduce them and show their back stories like how they fleshed out several stories of the passenger. It's not much a con for me since it's understandable that this is only a 15 episode drama and the main point is breaking out of the time loop.

Overall:
This was just really a great drama. If I could just reset my mind so that I can watch this again for the first time I would. Hoping that more people get to watch this, as it was just so good. It's also very refreshing from the usual C-dramas I've watched, and hope that more C-dramas can be like this too. Though I think for re-watching, I would love to re-watch this after several years where I have forgotten majority of the details for this or want to relieve this drama.

Citeste mai mult

Let's Think!

This is one of my favorite J-doramas of all time. I absolutely found this drama such a gem, it's really an eye opener. It shows you the dark side of using social media, how cyberbullying and harsh words can really affect someone on the other side of the screen. I love how this drama really addresses these issues and sends a message to not just the students but to us (the audience) as well.

Just to let you know this is a dark and heavy drama. There are some violence and sensitive topics to this, but I assure you that this series is really worth picking up and watching.

Things I have enjoyed:
- Let me just say I love most of the casts' acting here in this drama. They brought their characters to life. Must I say that, Suda Masaki, really took the spotlight. I seriously love his performance as Mr. Hiiragi. Every expression and lines that he delivers in this series was just so good.
- Story is really fast paced, I love how the story build up and kept me at the edge of my seat from start to finish. I could feel the tension throughout the series.
- Unexpected plot twists that would happened during the drama, and how each of the students were connected to the incident.
- It may be just 10 episodes, but you also get to know each student very well in this drama. It was really nice seeing their character development through the series, especially at the end.
- The strong message they would like to convey not to just the students in this drama, but to everyone who was watching this.

Cons but they really never bothered me too much:
- There are times it felt over the top, either with some of the cast being too dramatic or with their reactions. But that's really fine.
- I felt there were some loopholes, especially near the end of this drama.

Overall:
I seriously recommend this drama to everyone, especially to those who love heavy and thriller dramas! I hope to the future watchers that they'll enjoy this series like I have and that the message this drama wanted to convey also reaches you.

Citeste mai mult

Prepare for Cringe

If too cheesy, cringe and exaggerated acting is not your cup of tea; don't go for this series.

If you do watch this, please do not take the series seriously. It's there for a good laugh.

Watched this because all my favorite LDH (an agency in Japan) boys are in the series, especially for my oshi Kawamura Kazuma.

- Plot is mediocre
- The cast acting is really enjoyable. They're really good, they done a good job to pull off so many cringe scenes where you might end up face palming and questioning their doings.
- The series is a build up and introduction to each of the Prince teams and their characters. As at the end of the series it will go straight to the movie.
- Each character has their own unique characteristics.
- I'll be honest, I love Kanon (heroine) in the series. Her character is really refreshing, and I love how she doesn't give in to the boys' antics in the show.

Overall:
The drama is quite enjoyable especially if you're a fan of EXILE TRIBE (since most of the boys are from there), but not to the point you want to re-watch the series. Just watch ikemen compete with one another, and enjoy the cringefest this series will bring. And again, don't take the series to seriously.

Citeste mai mult

Chill, bubbly and light-hearted drama

It is a chill, bubbly and feel good drama. Though it's nothing too special in terms of story, it's cliché but nevertheless enjoyable.

Things I enjoyed are:
- Main lead's chemistry is so good, each scene is really enjoyable for me. I love replaying their scenes so much.
- The whole drama OST is really good. Especially the Opening and Outro songs, are really good that I could not skip them. (The main leads also sang the Outro song and also side songs from the drama)
- The location, I'll be honest especially the village was so breathtakingly beautiful.
- Zhuang Yu's (ML) character development is good. You see how much Yu Meiren (FL) had affected his character through the series.
- I love how they touch on different careers, a blogger and a professor in botany. Also how they show the importance of conserving birds (wildlife) and the sacrifices that botanists makes for their research.

Cons are:
- Story is a bit dragging and slow
- 2nd leads took most of the screen time, and I really dislike their story so much as it deals with lying about sickness, it wasn't cute. Screenwriters should have done something much different to the 2nd leads story, so that it could be executed better. I really do watch 2nd leads' stories on other dramas, but this was too much and had to skipped them. (Don't feel bad in skipping the second leads)
- There are some plot holes and wish they fleshed out more several parts of the drama especially for the main leads.
- There are times you have to question the main FL, she's known to be really smart but the way she acts might make you question her doings.
- The story had so much potential due to having so many romance troupes, but drama editing and lack of focus on the main leads did not do them and the story any justice. Tbh, there's so many deleted scenes on the main leads especially their kiss scenes; if you are not aware of the deleted scenes the future scenes might not make any sense to why the characters acted like that.
- Related to the last point, I would understand why the first actual kiss was cut out, since FL was not in the right state of mind. But I still wish they have retained it and executed it in a way that one of them would stop. Because it would make FL's action more understandable on the following episodes.

Some people might find this as a con, but it didn't really bother me so much... the main FL is very childish that it can get cringey, and she actually does have a childish voice that it might be grating to others who may dislike this kind of voice. But since this is the actress' real voice, and it does match Yu Meiren's personality, I didn't mind it so much.

I really stayed for the chemistry between the main leads, they made this drama more interesting and I enjoy every interaction between them. I love how it's 'She fell first, but he fell harder'. I enjoyed it much more on the later episodes. But kudos to the team, they really did a good job in casting the main leads and hoping to see these two do another project together in the future.

Zhang Bin Bin really was so handsome and looked so younger in this drama, he did a good job in portraying Zhuang Yu. Let me just say I absolutely love the micro-expressions he does to his character. You can feel how much his character was changing and falling hard for the FL.

While Yu Shuxin, did a wonderful portrayal as Yu Meiren. A very bubbly and sometimes too over the top cutesy acting. But she really gave the character life.

I heard this might get a Season 2, but honestly I wish they just go for a movie or special episode(s) for the main leads. To be honest I want more airtime from the main leads, but not too much to the point it might become dragging again; unless it'll focus on a different main lead and them becoming the 2nd lead or cameo.

Overall:
The drama is just really adorable and enjoyable when you watch the main leads. I really suggest watching this if you just want a chill or non-heavy plot drama to watch. Just skip the second leads' story line, since they don't really contribute much to the main lead's storyline.

Citeste mai mult

A very realistic drama on the hardships of a national team ping pong player

To be very honest I did not enjoy this drama so much and I might be just a minority. I don't want to discourage others in not watching this drama, but I feel like this is not for everyone, but you can give it a try if you'll proceed or not. If it weren't for my love for Bai Jingting, Xu Wei Zhou and my interest of seeing the journey to reach a certain part in episode 1; I would have dropped the series. I'll try to make my main review spoiler free, and I'll just voice out all my frustrations with spoilers in the comment section (will put a spoiler tag on it).

For a sports drama and a drama that was for a 70th year celebration, I was expecting the drama to be light-hearted or more uplifting; but in my opinion the drama wasn't. The drama really focused on the hardships, struggles, and real life choices and goals that a national ping pong player goes through; it is very realistic. By the time the drama comes around near the 30 episode mark, I felt so frustrated, upset and depressed on what was happening to the main character Xu Tan.

Every end of the drama, there will always be a ping pong trivia that will be shown before the end credits, it was a nice touch to get information from the said sport. Though I kind of felt off with the trivia as the drama progresses, the main part of the drama would sometimes force a situation on the main characters, so you can relate to the trivia that they'll show at the end of the series. There are a lot of characters in the drama, and how I wish that the situation was not forced just only to the main characters.

Bai Jingting did a wonderful job portraying Xu Tan (the actual main character of the drama). We were able to see him portray such a warm, passive and wimpy innocent boy from the start of the series, then change to a cold and calculative ping pong player later on in the series. I was actually amazed when I saw the behind the scenes for this drama, the actor really undergo body training throughout the drama; that you'll see a drastic change in his physique as the drama goes by. Now for the character, I have to admit there were several times that I have been frustrated on his character's choices in the drama and really dislike how so many characters around him look down on him and push him around throughout the series. But I really do root for him until the end, and really love the character change and growth throughout the drama.

Let me just say, Xu Wei Zhou, really nailed his role as Yu Ke Nan (the second main character) in this series. I just love how he was able to portray such a complex character and bring that character to life in the series. His character is very arrogant but he knew what he wanted ever since from the start of the series and see him struggling to get to his goal. Though I felt his character could be a bit too much and dragging poor Xu Tan with him due to his actions in the series.

Something I have noticed in the drama, is that there were unnecessary character arcs or drama that did not tie into the main plot and were just fillers. I felt like the episode number should have been shortened to 24-30 episodes. As mentioned earlier, that there are a lot of characters with different personalities. Though I was able to appreciate some of the characters (esp. Liu Shi, the bestie of the two main characters). Unfortunately for me, I felt a lot of the characters were just annoying or irritating. Just to let you know, there is also a villain in this drama.

Another thing, the romance was actually not needed in this drama. I would understand if they just made one of the main character with a romance plot to show the struggle and decisions of a ping pong player, and how they try to juggle out a relationship along with their commitment to the team. But they apply this romance to three characters, two of them being with the main characters.

Overall:

I've enjoyed some parts of the drama, the beginning and especially the last several episodes that lead to the ending. But as mentioned, I didn't really enjoy this drama as a whole and gotten upset on how the story turns out especially towards the middle to 3/4th part of the story. I wouldn't re-watch this series as a whole, but I would like to re-watch the last few episodes and the ending as this was really my favorite part out of the series.

A lot of other people have enjoyed it, and their opinions/reviews on this drama are valid as well. So if you're curious, you may try and maybe it'll be your cup of tea.

Now I may vent out my frustrations with spoilers in the comment section. If you have not watched this, you can skip that but if you would want to see it... please proceed with caution.

Citeste mai mult

A Wuxia with a feminist twist

Let me just say, I absolutely adore this series so much! Definitely on one of my top C-drama faves.

Though this series may not be for everyone. It actually does not follow the traditional way, and if you're looking for heavy romance or dramas without politics, this might not be for you. The first few episodes may seem to be on the romance route, but it'll take the backseat of the drama.

Just to put this in, this might be a TRIGGER WARNING but there are abusive relationships in this series and a suicide attempt.

STILL! I'm hoping that new watchers could still give this a try and watch this whole series.

Things I like about this drama:
- I really love the sisterhood between all the women in this drama. At first there might be several women that are rude and actually there is one that I really dislike, but they do change throughout the series. There are no evil scheming women in this drama, and this was just really refreshing to see. I absolutely love their friendship with one another.
- There are no love triangles! You may think that there might be for the main leads, but there is not.
- The series really does tackle issues about gender equality, political corruptions, family problems and etc.; and seriously love how they bring women empowerment into this series and how they really push for changes in such a chauvinistic world.
- Main leads have good chemistry, I wish they extended the drama a bit because I really wanted more romance since it did take the backseat of the drama for a while. But every scene where their characters flirted or bantered throughout the whole drama, I seriously love it.
- It is a very light and feel good drama, there may be some parts that may seem heavy; but they are not.
- Everyone's acting! Please everyone really did a great job bringing each their characters to life and show how different each of their characters are. Seriously kudos to them!
- Comedy, for me I really loved the comedy in this series and it was actually the reason why I got hooked to the drama. The comedic timing and conversations would have me bursting into tears of laughing so hard. If you find the comedy in the first two episodes really hilarious, you'll definitely like the comedy further in the drama.
- All the arc in this series. Everything was really put together, each arc connecting to one another. To be honest, I've seen some reviews saying that the series is draggy, but that's really not the case. There is a lot of characters, and their stories do unfold in this drama and why they are connected to the main plot. You get to see each and every individual character (important characters), how they differ from one another and how several of them strive for changes in their world and/or have a huge character development.
- I love the brotherhood between the 3rd, 5th and 6th princes; these three looking out for one another unlike the others.
- I've mentioned it earlier, but both main leads and the other important characters have a character development. It's really nice seeing their growth and how they do mature.
- Please the food in this drama, they absolutely looked delicious. I actually crave to eat Chinese food because of this series.
- Music, seriously love every music and background music they used throughout the series. Even the tune they use on the comedy scenes was just so perfect, that it would just make me laugh.
- The ending, it was just so satisfying!

Cons:
- To be honest, I did not like several of the character's decisions because they were a bit rash.
- Second couple, to be honest I did not like how one of them was abusive. Their abusive relationship was for comedy, but to be honest I find it a bit too much. There were several instances they push and pull; and it got a bit tiring.
- I'll be honest several regions in this series, sounds almost the same. At first I thought that several characters came from the same region, but later found out that they don't. So please do pay attention to the first part of the first episode as they do talk about the regions. If not, you can also check the discussion thread here on MDL that shows all the regions if you do get confused.

Overall:
I seriously loved this drama to bits! It is really refreshing to see a drama like this and definitely will be re-watching this again, as I really did enjoy this series! Maybe I might see any details that I've missed.

Citeste mai mult

A drama that is focused on the balance of career and life

This is another chill slice of life drama to watch. The story is really quite simple, there are some tense scenes but due to the characters' line of jobs.

I've suddenly became a Bai Jingting fangirl after watching him on 'Reset' and been going through his dramas, after seeing so many good reviews here, I've decided to watch it. Honestly, this drama is really cute to watch, I love the realistic and natural approach they did here. Though I think 40 episodes was a bit too much for this kind of drama.

Things I love about this drama:
- I really love the healthy relationship between the main leads. Both their occupations are very demanding, yet they were able to maintain their relationship. They have a huge trust, patience and understanding with one another. Also they would apologize if one made a mistake, and they do clear up any misunderstandings with one another. This is something I usually don't see in dramas, and I really love it so much.
- Also I love how natural the main leads chemistry was. Also after their characters got together, they really gave a good job showing how awkward things can be at a start of a relationship and how it builds up afterwards.
- They really show the importance and difference between a police and a doctor; and how these jobs are very crucial and demanding. I love seeing the main leads very dedicated to their jobs.
- It's my first time to see a drama having three couples. I love the huge difference with each couples, and they were quite enjoyable for me (though the second couple did get to the point of being frustrating). Main couple was a huge fluff-fest, and show how pure and innocent their love is. While second couple was quite funny, more on the passionate side despite the second ML was a huge blockhead. Third couple, I seriously love them as they were really level headed and mature. Another thing each characters of these three couples, I love how passionate they are with their work as well and how helpful they are when a disaster strikes in.
- Have to say, I love the FL's character development from the first few episodes and how she became such a great doctor in the future. There are several episodes where you could see that she's a strong FL and a smart one as well, you could also see her overcoming something she fears in the early episodes and I really love that they made her character that way. Another thing I like was that our FL looked very realistic with none/natural make-up and didn't doll up much; which is given as her occupation as a doctor. I found this detail really nice, as I don't see any real life doctors dolling-up for their work.
- It's fun seeing the ML's gap, being a very strict and cold (?) captain of the police team and becoming a very smitten and awkward man when it comes to the FL.
- OST, I seriously love both the opening and outro songs so much. Outro was very upbeat, while the outro was really calming; have never skipped them when I move to the next episodes.

Cons:
- Despite this being quite an enjoyable drama for me; I felt that 40 episodes was a bit too much for my opinion. I felt that after the main leads got together, the story started to progress a bit slow and the next few happenings/arcs in the drama was a bit unnecessary.
- I did mentioned that I still love all three couples of this drama. But as mentioned that the second couple did quite get frustrating, and how I wish they didn't drag their relationship until further down the episodes. This couple also have a love triangle. (I'm glad they didn't put it with the main leads)
- There are several side characters that are very annoying and can be stressful. Two of the annoying side character have an arc nearing the end of the series and I felt that this arc was just not needed at all.
- The romance to be honest was really slow paced, especially for the second and third couples.
- Not sure, but I didn't really feel much character development with the main ML; but it was nice seeing flaws about him in several parts of the drama. He didn't felt too perfect, but I really did wish they gave him a development that was really noticeable.
- I felt like they have forgotten several characters, such as the main FL's best friend that has a sickness. I wanted to hear a closure for her, but we never gotten it through the run of the drama and it's like she just disappeared.

To be honest I'm not sure if the medical terms and procedures are all correct, but I'm hoping they are as it would be very informative.

Overall:
The story is not completely unique, but it's enjoyable. The first half of the drama really hooked me especially during the disaster arc, but as mentioned I felt the pacing started to slow down after the main leads got together. If you're into something light to watch, seeing couples with a healthy relationship, a drama with a dash of several tense and maybe frustrating scenes; maybe you'll enjoy this drama too! For re-watch, I'm not yet sure if I'll do another re-watch for this; sure I did enjoy this but not to point that I would do another run again for re-watching it. Maybe I'll re-watch some parts that I've enjoyed but not the whole drama.

Citeste mai mult

Don't trust anyone

I remember that a lot of my mutuals were talking about Anata no Ban Desu back then, and decided to binge watch this during lockdown back in 2020, and this was one of the J-doramas that really have gotten my attention. It is easily one of my fave J-doramas. This review will be for season 1.

If you're into thriller, mystery and murder; this drama may be up your alley.

Things I've liked about this drama:
- There are a lot of characters to suspect. Each one of them have their own quirks, and unusual behavior. Due to their mannerism and how they react, sometimes you have to question everyone of them 'Are they the culprit behind the murders of the tenants in the drama?'
- Despite the unrealistic attitudes of some of the tenants of the building, I really have to commend the acting of those whose characters have the weirdest and creepiest personality. Kudos to them, they really brought their characters to life and made me feel so uncomfortable with their characters throughout the drama.
- This whole drama was really interesting on how they executed it, each end of the episode makes you want to crave for more and see how the next scene/murder will unfold.
- I love the tone of the drama, let me just say the eerie background music really does set up the mood especially when discovering a murder or when investigating someone.
- The sudden plot twists that happen along the way. Honestly I loved how things would come up unexpected. Let me just say that I wasn't prepared on how they ended this season. I was seriously shocked.
- I'm a huge Aimer fan, so I absolutely love the opening song 'STAND-ALONE' for the drama. And the title name, kind of match the series, because the series makes you feel that you should stand alone and not trust anyone.

Cons:
- I felt off with the game they played at the meeting in the first episode and that lead to the start of the murders. Let's be honest, who in the right mind would bring up that kind of game during a tenant meeting?
- Even though I like the acting and that we have tons of suspect with their own personality in this drama. I felt that all the tenants are just not realistic to real life. I know it was another way to set the mood up for the drama, and make you suspect each one of them and also get creep out; but I felt it was a bit too over the top.
- Not all characters were fleshed out. If I'm not mistaken, we have to watch the spin off series to see every tenant's back story.
- It kind of bothered me, despite being married. The FL didn't really open up to the ML until things started going haywire.
- I'll be honest I wasn't really feeling the chemistry with the main leads for this. But this didn't really bother me too much, as I was more invested with the actual premise of the story.

Overall:
If you really love suspense, thriller, murder and mystery; you should definitely try this series out. Despite the weird characters, it's a drama that can get you hooked too and make you crave to see the following episodes and find who the culprit is. Re-watch value, yes I definitely would still want to watch this again but maybe after several years when I have forgotten the story.

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To be honest, I really like this drama but I have mixed feelings about it as a whole. But let me just say it's really a simple cliché love story with a few twists in this.

Things I've enjoyed from this drama:
- The cinematography of this whole drama, the color grading of each scene was just *chefs kiss*; it was so good I honestly loved it.
- The casts! Especially both the younger and older version of Yae and Harumichi. These four did a good job in portraying the main leads of the story. The cast of the younger version really did a good job portraying such a cute and innocent love. While the actress and actor of the older version, they are veterans in the J-ent industry and I really enjoyed how they brought the characters to life. Takeru with his micro-expression was so spot on and his yearning for Yae. While Hikari did a very good performance as Yae, I loved her acting especially during the last few episodes where it fleshed out her character's early married life.
- As a huge Utada Hikaru fan, I seriously love hearing her music throughout the series.
- There is a sense of nostalgia going through the series, and just reminds you of the good old days too. It hit me when I saw some old items I've used in the past and hearing the song Automatic.
- The way they presented the younger main lead's relationship. It really gives you the feeling of how sweet, innocent and pure first love felt. Honestly have enjoyed this part much more than the main lead's present storyline.

Cons:
- It is one of the few things I wished they got rid from the series. But it is an explicit 18+ scene on the earlier part of episode 5. There are a few nudity in this, so if you're uncomfortable with this... this might turn you off. Honestly the drama is really about the yearning and innocent feeling of first love, and I felt like this kind of scene was just out of place and not needed in this series.
- The ML's action during the present time. I was not happy with him cheating on his fiancée when he reunited with FL. For me I just wished he cut off his relationship first before making a move towards the FL. Also I felt so bad for his fiancée through this series, she tried so hard to salvage the relationship and she didn't deserved how things have ended between them both.
- The amnesia and 'villain parent' troupe being used in this series. These troupe just felt over-used for me. Honestly after the amnesia part started, I felt like I didn't much enjoy the following episodes so much. But that's just me.
- The FL's mother, honestly I seriously dislike her so much. If it weren't for her, the main lead's relationship might not have gotten worst.
- I felt the flashbacks and change to present timeline wasn't executed well in the drama. The change is just so abrupt, suddenly you would be confuse on what is happening. I wished that they mentioned what year the scene was supposed to be in.

Overall:
I think it's still a good drama despite it being cliché, the flaws and several frustrations. It did made me cry especially near the end. As mentioned I do like this drama and I can see a lot of people as well have enjoyed it. I don't think it's a series for me to re-watch, experiencing this one time is good enough. If you're hesitating to watch, just give this series a try and maybe you'll enjoy it as well.

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A chill yet enjoyable drama

This was my very first C-drama and it gotten me interested with watching other C-dramas too. As a gamer, I really did enjoy the concept of incorporating MMORPG into the story. It was really a fresh idea, and haven't seen this kind of concept done on dramas.

Story-wise it is a very simple storyline with no huge plot. It is another one of those chill dramas that you want to watch when you don't want anything heavy.

Things I've enjoyed from this drama:
- Again, let me repeat. I enjoyed how they incorporated MMORPG game into the story. As a previous 'Age of Wushu' player, the game they were playing was really similar. So everything happening from the game was relatable, even the toxic players too.
- I'll be honest, despite the main leads are a bit stiff with their characters. I do enjoy the chemistry between them, the fluffy scenes would just make me squeal.
- I love how the main leads have complete trust with one another in their relationship. This was something I didn't expect to see in a drama, and it was just so nice to see this kind of couple in the drama world. They would talk things out, and wouldn't submit to any rumors and clear things out.
- Wei Wei (FL), she's very intelligent and she's very capable of handling herself.
- 'Villains' of the story had much positive growth.
- I enjoyed the subtle bromance between two of the characters in the series. Also I do love the ML and FL's set of friends, they really do bring life to the drama too.
- The drama gave justice to the novel source, I love how they fleshed out the online scenes and other parts of the story.

Cons:
- I'll be honest in the first several re-watches I've done, I didn't really see it at first... but let me just say that Xiao Nai is really a huge red flag. So if you're uncomfortable with the ML being a stalker in the first few episodes and a bit dominating with making decisions for the FL. Maybe this might not be your cup of tea.
- Kiss scenes between the main leads are mediocre. Yang Yang did a good job, but Zheng Shuang didn't do much responses to his kisses. I would understand where the first kiss where she was dumbfounded and not responding since it was her character's first kiss, but wish she became more responsive on the next kisses.
- Main leads' characters, Xiao Nai and Wei Wei, are a bit too perfect in my opinion, their character wasn't relatable. Would have been more enjoyable if they had their own flaws as well and saw them have more character growth. But there's really no character growth for the main casts.
- I did not like who the second FL ended up with. She deserved someone better in my opinion.

Overall:
If you want something not so complex. Just a chill and simple drama, you might enjoy this. I really enjoy it despite it being a simple and easy going story. There are some flaws, but that's okay. Love the concept of the relationship starting from online, and it becoming offline (real) and a healthy one also.

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Movie wasn't what I really expected, I still think it's much better than the 1st season and the movie.

You need to watch at least the first movie and 2nd season in order to understand what is going on in this one. Also there's a lot of re-occurring characters from the first season/movie here.

- Since all of the series/movies under Prince of Legend is not much of a serious story, the plot isn't much as well here.
- It is another competition again with ikemens, this time with 'Aristocrats' and 'Princes'
- I love the aspect of concern between Team Next and Ryu, while trying to understand why one of Team Next member has changed to the Aristocrat side.
- All the boys are indeed an eyecandy, but I think Alan Shirahama (main actor) really took the spotlight here. Though I have to say that I prefer his acting in Season 2 as Shintarou instead. Him being as Dori in this movie, I had so many cringe moment with him being in that character, due to the change of personality. But he did well acting the part. I just wished his character was more opened to what was happening during the movie, since he's still Shintaro and the sudden shift to a different personality felt off and less compassionate unlike how he was in S2.

Spoiler
- The movie does end in a cliffhanger, and I'm hoping that despite LDH dropping the otome game based on this series is that they still finish off the Prince of Legend series. For me, I think the cliffhanger was actually the most interesting and intriguing part of what it seems like a much bigger and darker plot. If they do push it, I hope they get a much better screen writer and make a much better plot for the next.

Overall:
If you have gotten invested with the series, go ahead and watch this. It's still fun and enjoyable. I'm just hoping if LDH continues this series, that the plot will be much better.

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Much better than the 1st Season and movie

Like the first season and movie, it still has it's cringe moments and some exaggerated acting but not so much.

Let me just say, it is very different from the first season, and the story is not so much connected to the 1st season and movie. I pretty much enjoy this more than the 1st season, as the plot has better substance.

- Majority of the main cast is different from the first season and movie. Only Team Next and Kyogoku Ryu are in this.
- Plot is much better than the 1st season, as it focus on the new characters. It's interesting, but still a simple plot.
- Unlike the previous season where each team has their own theme music, this one has their own chants which are a bit cringey but fun.
- It's more focus on brotherly/family conflict.
- Let me just say, it's much more violent and some scenes actually disturb me near the end of the series.
- It is also a build up to the next movie, and how things happened and why the main character would end up changing at the end.
- If you do pick this up, I do suggest watching the 1st movie, as there are some re-occurring characters and hints from the first season/movie.

Overall:
If you enjoyed the first season and movie, you would definitely enjoy these also.

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Again will mention this; if cheesy, cringe and exaggerated acting is not your cup of tea, this is not the thing for you.

I've done a review for the drama, and I have to say the same thing for this. If it wasn't for my love for the boys in this whole series, I may have dropped it.

This is a continuation from the drama. If you haven't watch the drama for this, you don't need to worry about that. Since they allotted 30mins of the movie for re-capping the drama series. You won't miss out much if you didn't watch the series.

- The movie is about the boys competing for the Prince of Legend title and some for Kanon (main heroine).
- I'll be honest not so happy with who the heroine ends up with, since I found the other boys had a much genuine love or reason for liking her.

Overall:
Same as my drama review. If you enjoy watching ikemens competing with each other and want something light and funny, you may want to try watching this. The boys did a good job with acting their roles.

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