Captured by your heart

I initially didn't want to watch that show, thinking it was a casual youth drama.
Oh boy. Was I wrong.

Once I pressed start on the first episode, it was over for me.
"No dating".
That was the only rule for 19 school.
13 episodes of a show where they are not allowed to date.
Interesting, I thought.
And I slowly was drawn deeper and deeper each episode.

This show got me hooked at how it is portrayed.
It shines with its honesty.
Teenagers who don't know how or what they are feeling.
Having a crush, falling in love, being happy but also being disappointed, being rejected and also feeling helpless.
We get to see it all, while cheering and suffering along with those teens.
The emotions are real and raw.
It's up to them, if they want to talk about it or not.
So over the time friendships, small rivalries as well as wholesome connections were found.
And honestly? I wish I had that bond that some of them shared.

The hosts:
At times, I was so in joy, confused, frustrated or didn't even know how to feel.
The four hosts were such a nice addition to the show.
They spoke out, what exactly I was thinking. Sharing my joy, clapping, celebrating, but also sharing my frustrations.
I felt like I was part of them, rooting for them, but also being frustrated at some points throughout the show.

Needless to say, that whole show made my heart skip some beats faster.
It was a rollercoaster of emotion, yet it was fun and heartwarming to watch.
I wasn't invested in a show for such a long time, so I am happy I gave that show a chance.

And lastly,
I'll adopt Pyeongseok, Heeji and Sangwon.
Those three captured my heart in particular.
Those three have a special way to interact with people, which made me very curious about them.

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Happiness comes in various shapes

F4 Thailand is one of its kind.

Story:
The story picks up at a school, where bullying is severe and seem very dark.
Poor girl meets rich arrogant guy, who eventually fall in love and become a couple, facing the issues of their social standards.
The story is nothing new, it is basically every cliché put in a drama, yet F4 Thailand managed to do it in the most intriguing and charming way.
Especially the usage of social media as bullying medium is implemented phenomenal and just shows how fast a little spark can turn into a huge wildfire.

Each episode was build to have its own arc, making me go on a rollercoaster ride of emotions every time and anticipate every week.
Within' the episode, the antagonists got introduced.
We get to learn about them during the episodes, making them coming alive and emphasis with them.
The director and screenwriter did an excellent job creating those characters and make them not feel one dimensional only.
But that came with a price.
As much as I liked to get to know the side characters, they took away the screen time of the main cast and their story, which already had to be cut down to 16 episodes.
Making the F4 Thailand a fast-paced drama, that sadly, did not go in depth with the main story arc.

The cinematography is outstanding.
Every shot picked out carefully, showing a lot of symbolism and really emphasizes the story and the feelings of the characters.

Acting/ Cast:
- Main Cast:
The main cast is chosen out perfectly.
I could not imagine any other portraying F4 and Gorya now.
The cast showed multilayered characters, who were portraying the emotions in a raw and vulnerable way.
Making me laugh, cry and at some point trying to hit them.
The bond the cast share was natural, and you could tell, that all of them cared for each other.

- Family:
Goryas Family is a safe place for her.
Whenever she felt down, she knew that her family can and will cheer her up in the most loveable and fun way.
The characters were portrayed nicely. Fun, supporting, and just a joy to watch.

OST/ Music:
The music itself is great. I really love the "Who am I" which perfectly describes breaking out of your habits and go on a journey to find yourself.
Other than that I like all the other OSTs too, except some were used in odd places, which led to the score.

Overall, F4 Thailand is a modernized approach of the other BoFs.
It started really well, and I was intrigued, showing off to my friends as one of the best dramas I probably have seen in a while, but that excitement slowly faded away at the last quarter of the show.
It might be due to the fast progressing storyline, but I missed some crucial parts and was not really satisfied with the ending, like I was supposed to be.

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Love triangle at it's worse.

The story picks up at the point where a cheerleader club is looking for new members.
Little do the new ones know, that the cheerleader club is almost closing due to prophecies and controversies.
Captain Jungwoo is trying his best to save the club.
On his mission, he meets Haeyi as well as Sunho, who are joining the club for ulterior motives.
During their time in the cheerleader club, strange things are happening, which are linked to a past accident.
And so the mystery unravels. Slowly.
Or... at least it should.
Typically, the focus should be on solving the mystery and revealing the truth little by little.
Yet, there is a long drought until you actually forget, what the whole show is about anymore.
The writer clearly had his focus on the love triangle of Haeyi, Jungwoo and Sunho to the point, where even the mother of Haeyi and her brother are rooting for either of them.

I knew what I signed up for. But I didn't know, how bad it could have been implemented.
While I enjoyed tiny bits of the love triangle, it was just a pain to watch overall.
Haeyi, a bubbly, energetic girl yet childish and immature.
Her entire character didn't grow// there was no character development at all.
Sunhos story plot is well-developed, his character was interesting. I was rooting for him for the first quarter of the show, until he showed his obsessive side. Since then, he has been a red flag walking on two legs.
Jungwoo was as fascinating as a piece of plain white paper. No character depth in his character, no real background information. He just existed in the drama and happen to be the main lead.

Main leads beside, the side cast was great and I really enjoyed watching them dork around and rooting for them, even more than for the main lead couple.

Overall, the show was a mess.
I thought the title reflects it content.
A happy show that lifts my mood.
The drama started well and I was intrigued, but it lost its interest fast.

Cheerleader content? There are rarely any scenes. It's mostly just practice, which showed the same move.
Mystery? Literally butchered down. And those tiny bits we got are underperforming.
Romance? Yeah. No. Chemistry of the main leads was missing.

The only saving points were the side characters, their friendship and their story arcs.

Cheer up should have been a happy, motivating show, yet it left many of us frustrated, wanting to finish fast or drop it.

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CODA: Get ready to wrap it up beautifully

CODA, a word that is linked to two major topics.
While it has a place in music, where it means to conclude the song nicely, it also has a meaning in society, where it means child of a deaf.
Combining those two topics was a great idea and holds a special meaning storytelling wise.

Story:
The story itself is great and somewhat new.
The usual time travel dramas are dealing with a main lead, that is traveling back in the past to investigate, or even change their future outcome.
While this is partially true for Twinkling Watermelon too, it has more depth to it.
Ha Eun Gyeol was unintentionally sent back in time and Choi Se Kyeong got there to just have a wholesome last time.
One is trying to prevent the dad from a great misfortune, while the other is trying not to get born at all.
While both don't know why they are exactly there, their futures are more intertwined than they assume at first.
Linking light events like first love, family matters, but also deals with more in depth topics such as abuse, abandonment and many more together.

Casting:
The cast in Twinkling Watermelon is so phenomenal.
I can't think of better main roles.
Ryeoun and Choi Hyun Wook were absolutely astonishing in how they portrayed Ha Eun Gyeol and Ha Yi Chan.
Their bromance, the laughter and their relationship of friends/ father son is one of a kind.
It makes you wish to have this kind of relationship too.
Both did amazing in how they brought the complicated characters of them to life.
Seol In Ah did a fantastic job portraying Choi Se Kyeong.
Her character brought a cheerfulness and easiness into the drama.
But my highest respect goes to Shin Eun Soo who is portraying Yoon Cheong Ah.
Acting itself is hard as it is, but portraying a character, with no lines and purely throughout facial expressions and actions is top tier acting.
You could literally see the character development of Cheong Ah through the screen.
Hands down, my highest respect.

Music:
The OSTs as well as the songs played in the drama itself were nice.
"Higher" perfectly describes a spirit that is free.
Nothing can stop you, while you are trying to reach your dreams.

"Shining" is more of a motivational song.
It describes a feeling of Not giving up.
Forget about the past and start again. There are always opportunities for it.

Overall, Twinkling Watermelon is a must watch.
If you haven't seen it yet, you are missing out.
You'll feel all kinds of emotions while watching.
I caught myself cheering and even shedding tears several times.
The director did really great in directing the drama and the actors did fantastic in portraying the emotions.
Well done.

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This drama captures your heart.

First of all let me say, that I am usually not watch BL's, but this one sparked my interest only from the trailer.
So I gave it a try.
I was not expecting much, but once I started the drama I was involved at the very first moment.

The relationship between Sangwoo and Jaeyoung feels real and genuine.
I really loved how the two opposing character traits clash and watch them little by little adapt to each other in the only 8 very short episodes, making them turn from enemies to lovers.
While I think it was wrapped up perfectly in those 8 short episodes, I am lingering for more.
I wanted to see both of them together once more and interact with the support characters, who were portrayed in a perfect balance of seriousness and funniness.

The drama itself was a rollercoaster of emotions.
Every time it got a little romantic, I caught myself cheering and rooting for them, making me feel like I have butterflies in my stomach too.
When it got critical, I could feel the pain each one of them was feeling.
A big thanks to Jae Chan and Seo Ham for portraying those two characters. Both do an outrageous job.

Overall, it is a lovely drama that keeps you on your toes.
Making you go through several emotions in a short period of time.

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A stranger is a friend you haven't met yet.

One of the most refreshing variety shows out there.

This variety show did everything right.
You didn't have to watch all three dramas. In fact, I only watched Itaewon class and The Sound of Magic, but after watching the show, I will definitely check out Love in the Moonlight.

There is a saying that goes, "To find a true friend is like finding a treasure."
And I feel like, that this whole show was the start of a journey of new-found friendships.

The awkwardness and the introversion in the beginning.
It was weird to look at first, but once the show proceeded I loved it how each actor opened their heart, fangirled/ fanboyed to each other and even included the others in their team// bonded together. Literal strangers turned into friends, and I truly believe that their friendship will stay even after that show.

The entire show was entertaining, had plot twists and was wholesome all in all.
I haven't laughed and felt connected with the actors so much in a while.
At no point of it, it felt like there were 3 teams competing against each other.

It was always one big group of friends, shortly get separated into three groups while still fighting for the same goal. Friendship.
It is absurd how the producer got the main cast of 3 different dramas and even got special guests on board to take part in a variety show for 3 days. And while I already know myself that it had been such a big act, I wish there was more to watch. More of their friendship, more of the entertainment, just more of the interactions itself.
8 Episodes flew by so fast, and I am lingering for more.
My fingers are crossed for a season two.

If you haven't watched the show yet, please do.
And get swayed by wholesomeness and entertainment.

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Retractable pen

We are at a fight scene in a high school.
And this is basically continuing throughout the whole show. This drama does not shy away from violent scenes.
Verbal abuse, mistreatment, bullying as well as physical violence, such as beating up, ganging up as well as a decent amount of stabbing.
Among all those, we get to see three friends, who stick together to help and support each other.

The story itself could have been divided in two parts. The first four Episodes were amazing. We got to see how the friendship between Shi Eun, Soo Ho and Beom Seok was formed.
Honestly, it felt so fresh and natural how those three found together and what they are willing to risk for each other, while the plot is developing.
But sadly, the second part lost my interest. Not because it was not interesting, but more because we got literally thrown into a villain arc. There was little to no transition from the first four episodes to the last four.
And suddenly, a more or less important side character became the main villain.

The only thing that kept me there and not dropping the whole show was the character Soo Ho.
Choi Hyun Wook played his character so perfectly. He was dorky, charismatic and was just adorable in the entire drama.
He as well as Ji Hoon managed to portray the bromance of Shi Eun and Soo Ah in a way, where they do not have to speak much, to understand and care for each other.

Park Ji Hoons character is a hard one to play. You need to find the right/ decent amount of indifference, coldness as well as anger and joy in your facial expressions.
And to be honest, I am not really sure, if he managed to do so.
I have been waiting for some major character development, and even when I got it, it still did not satisfy me.
One thing I have to give him.
He can portray anger quite well. Paired with the retractable pen and the monotone sound, the emotion came off well.
I was shocked to see the last Episode and wished he would have shown more of this potential in former episodes.

Hong Kyung managed to deliver that, what the director gave him. His story plot was rushed, yet he put on a convincing show by convincing us of his current anger and hate.

Overall, a short, fast-paced little series. Interesting characters, compelling plot and a friendship, you wish to have.
I am excited, what season 2 will bring us.

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This is not a solo competition but a Team Competition.

I have seen a lot of dramas, but I have never seen a live action drama like this before.
And I have to say, I am in for it.

Story:
Former professional eSports player Yu Xiu resigned and is fighting his way back to the top.
On his path to glory, he has to deal with several issues and hardships, but together with his newly assigned team, he is overcoming those.

"Our coming together is not to change one another.
But to become better for one another.
The combination of you and me, creates us." - Chen Guo

Friendship and teamwork is what made this series so great.
Joy, frustration, anger as well as loneliness.
Every emotion was portrayed by the characters neatly.
I truly can't express how much each character grew on me.

Totally different characters find each other, bonding over their passion "Glory".
Building a deep relationship towards each other, arguing, fighting and overcoming their hardships. Together.
To be the best Team in this league.

Cast:
The cast did an outstanding job.
With this big of a cast, it would be hard to say something to each one of them, but they truly portrayed their specific character in the best way possible.
Every character was unique and very likeable. So has at least one they adore.
But I want to mention several cast members especially.

Yang Yang (Ye Qiu/ Ye Xiu), was totally immense in the role.
With his various facial expressions, he portrayed his mature and honest character in such a charming way, winning my heart in no time.
While his character had no real character development, he plays a crucial role in the character development of the side characters, while not neglecting any bit of the main story plot.

Lai Yu Meng (Su Mu Cheng), a wholesome friend. Dedicated professional player, who does not forget, in which team she belongs, but supportive of their friends.

Yang Ting Dong (Mo Fan), has probably one of the most interesting side arc. He didn't say much, but the way the team acted towards him was just so heartbreaking.

Huang Shao Tian (Jiang Long). Oh gosh. I have no words for him. With his big grin, his choice of words and the way he acted he is such a mood maker. I wish we could have seen more from him.

OST:
The opening song is chosen perfectly.
It describes even when facing bumpy roads, getting beaten and lose strength not to lose hope and confidence and fight that battle with all your mighty together.
All the other songs were nicely chosen/ composed. They fit neatly into the story and supported the mood of it.

There are many choices, but my choice today is[...]

40 Episodes might sound intimidating to one or another.
For me, it was one of the points, why I always pushed back the drama.
But let me tell you, those 40 Episodes went by so fast.

Once I started it, I couldn't stop anymore.
Each Episode is calming, almost distressing, but at the same time it was hyping me up and getting me excited.
I was on the edge of my seat, screaming, celebrating and rooting for the characters more than I admit.

Overall a fast-paced drama, action filled episodes and a cast, you wish to be part of.

There are many choices, but my choice today is: Team Happy.
What is yours?

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"Even the worst cliches sound good coming out of your mouth."

This drama didn't invent the wheel new but it added it little spice to it.

A business proposal is filled with cliches and I doubt you'll find one drama that cooperated them so well into a series, that made the drama an easy going, fast paced and humorous show to watch.

The acting of the cast and their chemistry is outstanding.
And I am not talking about the chemistry of the main lead couple only.
The friendship between the main cast, supporting, mocking and brighten up each other in every single way makes you want to be part of it.
Also support characters as Mr. Kye or Jo Yoo Jung made the drama even iconic with their lines. The latter cracked me up with her random english lines everytime.

All of the OSTs are charming, almost suffocating sweet.
They are upbeat and have a certain ease to them, which makes them the perfect match for A Business Proposal.

While the ending was not rushed, I still felt like I was missing something.
They tried to finish it in 12 EPs, which made it, like I said before, a fast paced show, but in the end I wished they added one more EP to take us on the journey of the two main leads and their future.

Overall, if you are looking for a drama, where you'll get hit with cliches, relatable characters, iconic lines, and a lot of humour you found the perfect rom-com to enjoy your time with to relax.

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Strings attached

Let me start of with a saying:
With each dawn, live's tapestry waves a bit more ease into its complex threads.

And that is what the drama is about.
The drama is a thrilling experience.
We get to see several plots slowly intertwining, without being dragging or dull. Metaphorically speaking, it is like a thread slowly turning into a string.

Emotional scenes are paired with funny moments or anecdotes, which lift the mood, making the scenes light and uplifting instead of suffocating.
Yes, I am talking about you, Mr. Cyber-pass/Bill-man. 😂

Character-wise, the main lead didn’t have major development, but he is the puzzle piece and key figure that makes his friends shine in their development, giving them strength, faith, trust, and a brighter view of the world.
People you initially disliked turn into real friends, overcoming their selfishness to help one another or having the courage to face a parental figure and slowly overcoming several issues on their own.

Yoon Chanyoung and Bong Jaehyun did a fantastic job portraying their characters.
They conveyed emotions in detail and brought dimension to their roles.
But I need to talk about Joo Yoonchan.
This man excelled in his role.
Watching him play his character made me experience a range of emotions, from fury to pity, as well as faith in humanity.
And this is what acting is about: portraying a fictional figure to the fullest.
Well done.
I am looking forward to seeing more from him.

Despite some loopholes and the wish to see what happened to some characters after the end, the drama is a well-crafted piece of gold.
I am very picky with my 10/10 ratings, but this show deserves it.
The actors were handpicked, bringing life and dimension to each character.
The story is interesting and new. I mean, come on? A gangster in high school dealing with math problems? 😂
The main and sub-plots are crafted with love, teaching you an important life lesson.

Don’t live in fear.
Tackle your issues one by one and live your life to the fullest.
You only have one—make the best out of it.

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